Waterbury Button Co. pattern 11328

[McCDig]

A Waterbury Button found in Baltimore


The button pictured below was researched as being Waterbury Button Co. pattern 11328, classified as a "career uniform" button.
Have you found a similar button or have detail as to the period and what type of uniform it decorated?

 

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[fyrffytr1]

The way I read it the "Superior Quality" backmark was one used by Steele & Johnson. They were in business in one form or another from 1852 until 1920 when the Waterbury Button Company bought them. The firm was one of the four major 19th century uniform button making companies. I can't help with what uniform it would have been made for.
My information came from "American Military Button Makers and Dealers; Their Backmarks and Dates." by McGuinn and Bazelon. I found it on pages 154 and 123 in case someone more knowledgeable wants to add anything.

 

[Mud Hut]

Here is an interesting read about "SUPERIOR QUALITY" usage and backmarks, which has apparently been used as late as 1985 or later: http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/foia/ttab/2fissues/2005/76301434.pdf

 

[McCDig]

Thanks for the lead on Steele and Johnson. I'll follow up.

 

[McCDig]

Excellent reference. Will have to take my time wading through that link...lots of detail!