Collectors indicate rare Waterbury Buttons, like large gilts from the 1840s, are worth up to several hundred dollars each.
Another helpful factor in identifying military buttons is to check the shank, the attachment that holds the button in its place. If you see a shank soldered at the base, the buttons came from an older period such as the 18th and 19th centuries. Civil War buttons also had that mushrooming effect in the shanks as well.
Button depicts spread-winged eagle facing right with patriotic shield, generally intended for enlisted troops and were widely used by both sides during the Civil War, including state units.
Civil War era buttons usually show a circular depression at the base of the button around the shank. A small, very round shank eye also indicates a Civil War period button. Shanks inset into holes in the button didnt happen until after World War I.
Different Types of Collectible ButtonsCelluloid Buttons. This rare material is the very first man-made plastic. Bakelite Buttons. Bakelite buttons are highly sought after. Lucite Buttons. Lucite has a low density but was stronger than previous plastics. Victorian Glass Buttons. Old Metal Buttons.
Confederate States Army, CSA buttons. Produced by Waterbury Button Company. These are available in sizes 36L Coat, 30L Coat and 24L Cuff for $5.00 each.
Here are some tricks to determine whether a button is very old:It shows signs of being handmade, such as a lack of uniformity.The button displays an antique style, such as Art Nouveau or Art Deco.The back of the button is not a uniform texture.There are no mold lines to indicate machine manufacturing.
Waterbury Button Company – 200 Years of Experience.
Here are some tricks to determine whether a button is very old:It shows signs of being handmade, such as a lack of uniformity.The button displays an antique style, such as Art Nouveau or Art Deco.The back of the button is not a uniform texture.There are no mold lines to indicate machine manufacturing.
Different Types of Collectible ButtonsCelluloid Buttons. This rare material is the very first man-made plastic. Bakelite Buttons. Bakelite buttons are highly sought after. Lucite Buttons. Lucite has a low density but was stronger than previous plastics. Victorian Glass Buttons. Old Metal Buttons.
Button collectors take simple, utilitarian objects taken for granted by millions of people each day and group them into delightful displays that make you stop and think. A button collection might bring back childhood memories.
Some antique buttons are valuable, but most sell for less than $50. However, if you suspect you have a rare antique button, it may be worth much more. Some rare examples go for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Youll see buttons selling as sets and also individually.