Self Sustaining Solenoid

A self-sustaining solenoid which is adapted so that when applying an operating current to a coil, a moving iron core disposed in the coil is attracted into contact with a fixed receiver. A magnetic yoke is provided to extend between the fixed receiver and the end portion of the moving iron core projecting out of the coil, and a permanent magnet is disposed on the magnetic yoke at least at one end in the direction of movement of the moving iron core. When the moving iron core is held in contact with the fixed receiver, magnetic fluxes emanating from the permanent magnet mostly pass through the moving iron core, the fixed receiver and the magnetic yoke, and even if the operating current is cut off, the moving iron core is retained in contact with the fixed receiver.