The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word GILT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
G
I
L
T
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GILT mean?
GILT verb- To cover with a thin layer of gold; to cover with gold leaf.
- To adorn.
- To decorate with a golden surface appearance.
- To give a bright or pleasing aspect to.
- To make appear drunk.
- Gold or other metal in a thin layer; gilding.
- Money.
- A security issued by the Bank of England (see gilt-edged)
- A gilded object, an object covered with gold.
- Golden coloured.
- A young female pig, at or nearing the age of first breeding.