Is it a button?

[Stealth digger]

Found this today at a spot that turns up items from the 1800's. it appears to be a button but the shank on the back is almost as long as the top is wide. If anyone has any ideas please let me know. I would have discarded it for a nail if I had not spotted the star & did not stick to my magnet.

 

[Ironman!]

Half of a brass rivet. Most of the rivets I find are smooth or blank. I have found rivets the same size as yours and bigger with the star on them. Also with an anchor!

IM

 

[Stealth digger]

Half of a brass rivet. Most of the rivets I find are smooth or blank. I have found rivets the same size as yours and bigger with the star on them. Also with an anchor!

IM

Very interesting thanks. Any idea of the era?

 

[goldnrelics]

nice find