Military Uniform Button Value Guide

Period
1800-1945
Origin
Unknown
Materials
Brass, pewter, tin

Military uniform buttons are prized artifacts that served as vital indicators of rank, regiment, and national identity on the battlefield. Spanning the era from 1800 to 1945, these fasteners represent a tangible link to historical military evolution and unit-specific heritage.

What affects the value of Military Uniform Button?

  • The clarity and rarity of the specific unit markings or national insignia on the front.
  • The legibility of the partial marking on the reverse, which can verify the button's provenance.
  • The physical condition of the metal, including the presence of original gilding or the extent of corrosion.
  • Historical significance of the era, with buttons from the early 19th century often commanding higher interest.

How to Identify Military Uniform Button?

  • Examine the reverse side for partial backmarks which often indicate the manufacturer or military supplier.
  • Identify the primary material, typically brass, pewter, or tin, which helps narrow down the production era.
  • Look for embossed symbols or crests on the face that correlate to specific historical regiments or branches of service.
  • Check the shank construction to determine if it is a one-piece or two-piece button design common in different centuries.

History of Military Uniform Button

Military buttons have a rich history, serving not just as fasteners but also as indicators of rank, regiment, and national identity. Early military buttons were often made of brass, pewter, or tin, evolving in design and material over centuries. They are highly collectible, with specific unit markings and historical context significantly influencing their value.

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