Waterbury Button Company Military Buttons Value Guide

The Waterbury Button Company, established in 1812, is a cornerstone of American military manufacturing, known for producing high-quality brass uniform components. These specific 1900-1940 US Navy buttons are prized by collectors for their historical craftsmanship and their role in early 20th-century naval history.

What Is Waterbury Button Company Military Buttons Worth?

The typical price range for Waterbury Button Company Military Buttons is $25 - $35 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the brass finish, with high-relief details and minimal denting commanding the full $35 value.
• Completeness of the set, as a full uniform grouping is often more desirable than individual loose buttons.
• Legibility of the manufacturer's backmark, which is essential for verifying the 1900-1940 production date.
• Historical provenance or evidence of use on a specific documented naval uniform.

How to Identify Waterbury Button Company Military Buttons?

• Check the backmark for the 'Waterbury Button Co.' or 'Waterbury Co.' stamp, which confirms the Connecticut origin.
• Examine the face for the crisp, embossed US Navy eagle-and-anchor motif characteristic of the 1900-1940 era.
• Verify the material is solid brass, which may show a natural aged patina or 'verdigris' depending on storage conditions.
• Look for the specific shank construction used during the early 20th century, typically a sturdy looped wire soldered to the back.

History of Waterbury Button Company Military Buttons

The Waterbury Button Company, founded in 1812 in Waterbury, Connecticut, is one of the oldest button manufacturers in the United States. They have a rich history of producing buttons for military uniforms, including those for the US Army and Navy, throughout various conflicts and eras. Their buttons are highly collectible due to their historical significance and craftsmanship.