Mystery Button

deaves · Nov 23, 2013

I found this while metal detecting in the Niagara region close to where many battles took place during the War of 1812. To me, it looks like an old button, but I'm hoping someone can help verify any aspect of what I have. It is about the size of a penny. I've been trying to clean it with a toothpick, but I'm not having much luck.

Thanks!

TheCannonballGuy · Nov 24, 2013

Deaves, welcome to TreasureNet.

We need a photo of the object's back. If it is a button, it seems to be the type known as a rivet-button -- which did not exist until the last 1/4th of the 1800s... and is still being manufactured today. There are many variations of rivet-buttons. Here's a photo to show you one whose body-shape looks similar to yours. Note the circular depression in the center, with a prominent "bump" in the depression. Most rivet-buttons are made of brass, but some are iron, like the object you found.

A photo of the back may show us whether it is a rivet-button, or something else. It could also be what is called a 4-hole button or a 2-hole button. None of those types existed during the War-Of-1812 era. They are almost impossible to date unless they have a maker's-name or identifiable business-logo on them.

deaves · Nov 24, 2013

Thanks for the info! I'll attach a picture of the back, but I think you're right on with the rivet button idea.

I'd like to find some way of cleaning it up a bit more so I can determine whether or not I have a keeper. I don't want to damage the button if it is fairly old, but at the same time, I don't want to keep it if it only dates back to a few decades ago. I've been using a toothpick for a couple hours, but I'm considering a bit of lemon juice on a swab.

Again, thanks for the info!

chrisplay2004 · Nov 24, 2013

For cleaning check out the cleaning and preservation section of TNet.

deaves · Nov 24, 2013

Thanks for the advice!

TheCannonballGuy · Nov 25, 2013

Thanks for making and posting a photo showing it from the side... which reveals it is one of the varieties of rivet-button.

deaves · Nov 25, 2013

Thanks for the input. I'll put this item in the "possibly neat finds" pile, but given the amount of corrosion, I don't think it will be possible to date it. Again, thanks for the help!