Bakelite Buttons Value Guide

These 1930s-1950s Bakelite buttons are highly collectible due to their iconic root beer amber hue and historical significance as the first fully synthetic plastic. Invented by Leo Baekeland, these durable American-made fasteners represent a pivotal era in Art Deco and mid-century fashion design.

What affects the value of Bakelite Buttons?

• The clarity and depth of the root beer amber color significantly impact the market price.
• Surface condition is vital; deep scratches or 'crazing' can reduce the value below the $20-$30 range.
• The quality of the polish and the presence of original patina enhance desirability for collectors.
• Matching pairs or sets are more valuable than individual loose buttons from the 1920-1940 period.

How to Identify Bakelite Buttons?

• Perform a Simichrome test; a positive result will leave a yellow residue on the cotton swab.
• Listen for the distinctive 'clunk' sound when two buttons are tapped together, rather than a high-pitched 'click'.
• Check for the absence of mold lines, as authentic Bakelite buttons were typically carved or polished after molding.
• Run the buttons under hot water to detect a faint chemical odor similar to formaldehyde.

History of Bakelite Buttons

Bakelite was the first plastic made from synthetic components, invented by Leo Baekeland in 1907. It was widely used for jewelry, buttons, and other decorative items from the 1920s to the 1940s, prized for its durability and ability to be molded into various shapes and colors.