In this study, we report Mn 3 O 4 and CuMn 2 O 4 spinels as potential protective coating materials on metallic solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) interconnect SUS430 and their ability to resist chromium diffusion in intermediate temperatures. Powder x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic studies confirm the formation of a single-phase spinel structure with dense microstructure. The high-temperature dc-resistivity measurements show low activation energies for both spinels and demonstrates the ability of good electrical conductivity at intermediate temperatures. The low activation energy at intermediate temperature estimated from electrical studies for both spinels confirm the compatibility of spinels to use as potential protective coating materials. Further, Mn 3 O 4 and CuMn 2 O 4 spinels are coated over ferritic stainless -steel (SUS430 grade) coupon by manual dip coating technique. The cross-section micrographs of both protective coatings show dense microstructures and better adhesion to SUS430. The oxidation kinetics studies show superior resistance to chromium diffusion and post oxidation microstructure characterizations verify the same. Finally, the impact of chromium diffusion on the electrical properties of coated coupons is undertaken by the area-specific resistance (ASR) measurements. The ASR for Mn 3 O 4 coated SUS430 is ~10 mΩ·cm 2 whereas CuMn 2 O 4 coated SUS430 shows ~15 mΩ·cm 2 after 1000 h of oxidation. • Development of spinel based protective coating as protective coating. • Dense microstructure with good adhesion over SUS430. • Better resistance for chromium diffusion at 750 °C. • Compatible ASR up to 1000 hrs oxidation cycle.