Vintage Button Collection Value Guide

This vintage button collection spans the early to mid-20th century, showcasing the transition from traditional metal fasteners to innovative early plastics. These pieces are highly collectible because they represent a shift in manufacturing history, evolving from functional closures into decorative status symbols.

What affects the value of Vintage Button Collection?

• The presence of rare early plastics such as Bakelite can significantly increase the collection's market price.
• Overall condition, including the lack of corrosion on metal elements and the absence of chips in plastic pieces.
• The intricacy of the decorative designs and whether the buttons are part of a matching set or a diverse assortment.
• Historical provenance or the inclusion of unique military or high-fashion designer buttons from the 1900-1950 era.

How to Identify Vintage Button Collection?

• Examine the material for signs of early plastics like Bakelite or celluloid, which were common between 1900 and 1950.
• Check the reverse side for metal shanks or specific manufacturing marks indicative of pre-war production techniques.
• Look for hand-finished details or unique patinas on metal buttons that distinguish them from modern mass-produced replicas.
• Test for weight and sound; early plastic and metal buttons have a distinct density compared to modern lightweight resins.

History of Vintage Button Collection

Buttons have been used for centuries, evolving from simple fasteners to elaborate decorative elements and status symbols. Early buttons were often crafted from natural materials like bone, wood, or metal. The 19th and 20th centuries saw a boom in button manufacturing, with new materials like bakelite and other plastics offering endless design possibilities, making button collecting a popular hobby.