Civil War Token in great shape and a button that needs ID

[Possumguts]

I've been hunting an 1800's farm and have been frustrated with the lack of finds. Nothing of note was found around the home despite the fact that the 82 year old owner (who was born there) saying that it has never been detected before. I wandered over to an old silo and found the token and button about 1 foot apart. I first thought the token was an Indian head but knew exactly what it was when I looked at the reverse.

The Reverse says "Exchange Insurance Collection & U.S. War Claim Office, Ionia Mich"
The Obverse says "James. Kennedy. 1863"

I'm curious if anyone can date and ID the button, as I know little to nothing about them.

 

[Brian in MA]

Can't help with ID. But, it is way cool.....

I'm sure someone here will ID it.

Brian in MA

 

[crazyjarhead]

I see benedict and?? What else does it say?? Knowing the makers mark will help ID it.

 

[garthbfan169]

WTG poss. That is in great shape!!

 

[Possumguts]

I see benedict and?? What else does it say?? Knowing the makers mark will help ID it.

I believe it says "Benedict & Barnham Extra"

 

[nhbenz]

BENEDICT & BURNHAM is the likely reading on the back (one of the Waterbury Companies). It would be in the age of 1834-43 according to this site: http://pw1.netcom.com/~jimyce/bm.html
Nice finds!

 

[teverly]

Your token is 495A-1a in Rulaus book.Listed as a common token....Nice civil war token and it is in great shape!!!!!!

 

[johnreb1980]

Sweet finds.

 

[Evan/tn]

great looking token and button!!!!

 

[West Jersey Detecting]

Fantastic finds!

 

[Johnny Ringo Silver]

Common or not, I love that token. 8)

 

[Nana40]

Common or not, I love that token. 8)

ME TOO! I'd be thrilled to find it! Fantastic find, Possum!

Nana

 

[jgas]

Now that is a piece of history...Nice job right there, that is a great find. Congrats...jgas

 

[vermonster]

Nice token .I just found an ARMY NAVY token in one of my fields. Just waiting for the rain to stop so I can get back out there!

 

[Montana Jim]

BENEDICT & BURNHAM is the likely reading on the back (one of the Waterbury Companies). It would be in the age of 1834-43 according to this site: http://pw1.netcom.com/~jimyce/bm.html
Nice finds!

Check this out too...

http://www.thelampworks.com/lw_companies_b&b.htm