How to Identify Flat Button Vintage Colonial Metal Buttons?|A Collector’s Guide
For someone who collects or is simply intrigued by the beauty and craftsmanship of buttons, then flat button vintage colonial metal buttons are a niche that will certainly interest you. Wearing those formed-baked buttons on your garments was just the beginning, these buttons are also very richly historical and are intricately designed, thus making it an aesthetically pleasing challenge to a professional and a casual fan alike. A crucial step in this stage of building a collection is knowing how to distinguish these buttons.
In this collectible guide, we will explain the principles of flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification and the historical and artistic contexts for such artifacts, as well as practical advice on how to identify the forgery of authentic items. If you are just starting out or are already a seasoned collector, this manual will assist you in augmenting your collection and understanding and enjoying these artifacts even more.
What Flat Button Vintage Colonial Metal Buttons Identification?
Colonial Flat metal buttons were introduced in the North American continent during the colonial period. Mostly in the 17th and 18th centuries, these buttons were commonly made from metals. They were intricately designed and crafted. Such buttons were most commonly used on garments as they performed both functional and decorative purposes. But these buttons were much more than this: they were made out of brass, pewter, copper, and sometimes even silver and they were flat or round and had distinct historical designs.
Colonial metal buttons are unique because they represent the mix of cultures and technological growth at that period. They were handcrafted ornaments and some of their designs were simple, some others would have been dedicated to a specific region, a special use or a fashion trend in that era. For this reason, they are sought after by antique button collectors because of their history and their appearance.
Why Is It Important To Be Able To Identify Flat Button Vintage Colonial Metal Buttons?
Being able to flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification holds importance for various reasons. First, honest customers looking to buy original pieces would find them valuable due to their weight and age. Such buttons are of great historical significance. They are also aids to collectors. Second, vintage buttons appear to differ from reproductions or imitations. A skilled collector knows how to identify genuine old-style buttons.
To properly classify flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification a few specifics have to be taken into account. Outlined below are the most important determinants that you should consider:
1. The Material
One of the most important steps for flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification is examining the material from which they are made. During the colonial period, metals such as brass, pewter, copper, and even silver were commonly used. Since brass and pewter were very cheap and easy to mould into specific shapes, they were the most widely used. The most prestigious clothing had items made out of silver and gold buttons, though they were scarce.
When the button is in a terry-lined drawer, fingerprints may appear and begin to oxidize, giving it an old look. Look in the areas where smudging is noticeable or where heavy use or wear occurs. Authentic flat button vintage colonial metal buttons may display dark patinas due to their age, especially if they were made from brass or copper. If the powder is placed in a container and mixed with water, brass and pewter will float and iron or steel will sink. This test can assist in distinguishing buttons that may have been mislabeled.
2. Design patterns
When considering the flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification, most buttons from the colonial era had rather crude but delicate ornaments that were the outcomes of nature, geometric or everyday
3. Dimensions and Structure
Evaluating flat button vintage colonial metal buttons can also be done by considering their size and shape. A majority of colonial buttons were small, had a rather flat design, and could be of different forms for instance circular, square and oval. It is also true that scales may differ, but buttons of that period were typically more petite than today’s. The flatness of the button is a major characteristic that sets apart vintage colonial metal buttons from their contemporary equivalents which usually have some form of raised or domed effect to them.
However, you have to be very cognizant of buttons that have some form of elevation and are patterned as they are likely to be a more contemporary reproduction or might be a completely different type. Design features were simpler than those of other eras’ decorative buttons, as flat buttons produced during the colonial period served more practical than decorative purposes.
4. Shank and Attachment Method
All the Colonial metal buttons had a shank, that part which stitches the button to the garment. The metal shank was mostly soldered or was made out of the same materials as the button. Unlike the current buttons which normally have a loop made out of plastic or metal, colonial buttons had, more often than not, a flat shank with a narrow aperture which was likely to be situated at the back of the button through which the sewing thread was passed sometimes. This little hole was usually positioned at the rear of the button.
Flat button vintage colonial metal button identification can easily be done from the back by looking at the seam. Sometimes, military, political or other official buttons from this time period could have a rim, or the centre could be formed around a pin. Always, the method of attachment will help you to determine whether the button is a part of some garment or a fashion piece.
Avoiding Reproductions and Forgeries
The historic colonial metal buttons are in high demand not only because of their historical relevance but also because of the craftsmanship that went into their making. In the modern era, there have been attempts to try and recreate these buttons through reproductions, many button makers today replicate antique buttons attempting to mimic the original’s aesthetic qualities. These reproductions are usually manufactured using cheaper materials, an important factor which weakens their claim of being authentic as they lack the patina and imperfections common with colonial buttons that are handmade.
To avoid the mistake of acquiring reproduction buttons, make sure to rely on the primary aspects discussed earlier including the materials, design patterns, and the way the button is sewn onto the cloth. It’s important to note as well to always purchase in reputable establishments or sellers. Other websites such as The Kings Bay are reliable due to how they only deal in vintage and colonial items. They also specialize in historical artifacts for example buttons and will be a great resource for people who are seeking antique building blocks for their collection. Such genuine artifacts will guarantee the authenticity of the collector adding prestige to their empire.
Conclusion
For archaeology or history buffs as well as button collectors, the search and flat button vintage colonial metal buttons identification can be gratifying and enriching. Through the knowledge of the materials, the design patterns and decoration, the size, structure and form of attachment, these artifacts can be identified and appreciated even more. Whether you’re an expert in the field or a novice starting, there is so much beauty in the world of vintage colonial metal buttons, history, and culture. To improve your collection, do remember to always get in touch with reliable traders like The Kings Bay so that the items you buy are genuine and worthwhile. Happy collecting!
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FAQs
What Materials Do Vintage Colonial Flat Metal Buttons Use?
Brass, pewter, copper, or silver are the usual candidates.
How Do I Determine If A Colonial Button Is Real?
Look for a patina, handwork, and a thin metal shank on the reverse side of the button.
Which Symbols Did The Colonial Metal Buttons Have On Them?
Nature designs, geometrical designs, coats of arms and similar are quite popular.
Is It Easy To Spot The Reproductions?
Yes, because they were poorly made and did not include patina or handwork on them, and lower-grade materials were used.
What Are The Dimensions Of The Colonial Button?
They are usually small, flat and round, oval or square in shape.
Where Do I Find The Authentic Colonial Buttons?
For genuine vintage buttons, look at trusted dealers like The Kings Bay.
