WTH is this that just fell out of my /6?!

Changing plugs, pulled out the spark plug tube and wiped around and a little inside the plug hole with the tube out. This thing fell on the floor. Now, I'm not 100% sure it fell out of the hole. Maybe it was sitting near it, or who knows. But. What is it? And is my car going to run better without it (not supposed to be there) or with it (more work for me)?

'72 stock 225 slant 6.

Thanks.

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Author: admin