New Orleans gator

dieharddigger · Nov 29, 2008

New Orlean's gator

Dug this New Orlean's pin today at the 1860's college. The cuff link? came from an 1860's farmhouse. Any one know what the gator thing is,or the age? Also the age on the cuff link,if that's what it is.
Thanks, Steve

PBK · Nov 29, 2008

Re: New Orlean's gator

It's hard to be sure from the photo, but I think the New Orleans item is the top portion of a ribbon badge from a convention of some sort held in the Crescent City. Might also be a Mardi Gras item, but those usually feature different design elements. Anyway, if it is part of a ribbon badge, there should be evidence of two devices on the back. A pin at the top, of course, for attaching it; and just beneath that, a wire bar or loop for suspending the ribbon.

dieharddigger · Nov 29, 2008

Re: New Orlean's gator

Thanks PBK, there are a couple little bump outs on the upper corners, and the center looks like a pin attachement. Would you have any idea of the age?
Thanks again,Steve

PBK · Nov 29, 2008

Re: New Orlean's gator

Here's an example of a ribbon badge top, showing (1) an attachment pin, and (2) a suspension loop.

Ribbon badges with this type of construction were widely used from the late 1800's to at least the 1950's. This one? Just a guess, but maybe 1910's-30's.