Hello, I found this button while detecting in Virginia. The area I’m hunting has a structure that was believed to house slaves. The button is not in the best shape but I’m wondering if this may be of the age period. Any information would be greatly appreciated. The shank is attached with what I believe is silver, the button is a copper or brass alloy. It has some back marks but they are badly weathered. I believe there may be the letter T on the back of the button. The front has no apparent markings that I can distinguish.
I can’t really make out the back mark other than potentially large block letters. Some mid 1800’s button had LONDON with PLATED in larger block letters, don’t know.
Great background info from the other members already.
"The shank is attached with what I believe is silver, the button is a copper or brass alloy."
The 'silver' you see is lead soldier and your button is probably made of brass.
There's also a good chance that your button is 'slave related', but you'll never know for sure.
Dave