Information on Vintage Buttons

Some vintage buttons are valuable.

Collecting vintage clothing buttons can be a lucrative hobby. Imagine a tiny old object the size of a dime or quarter that is worth $10, $15 or more---and you have 100 or more of them. That is some serious value. Collecting vintage buttons isn't the only interesting part of this hobby. Researching the history of buttons, experiencing the sentimentality of a button like the ones on your grandma's favorite sweater, finding button memorabilia or learning about talented button artistry are all part of vintage button collecting.

Materials

In "Antique & Collectible Buttons: Identification & Values (Volume II)," Debra J. Wisniewski and Charles Lynch discuss the range of button materials including Bakelite, glass, ceramic, enamel, wood, fabric, metal, plastic, papier-mache, shell and combinations of materials. Black glass, painted plastic, painted glass and porcelain, enamel with crystal, stamped brass, paperweights and rare lithographs are some of the materials from which the more valuable vintage buttons are made.

Age

The age of vintage buttons affects their value as much as the materials they are made from. True vintage buttons were made before 1918, although there are many popular vintage buttons that were made in the '20s, '30s and '40s, like Bakelite. Collectors can have buttons appraised by private appraisers or by attending antique shows and button conventions for comparisons and information.

Types

There are many different types of vintage buttons for collectors to specialize in, such as antique military buttons, Civil War buttons or Bakelite buttons. Collectors often specialize in one particular favorite type of button, although many collect a variety of different kinds. Some of the most sought-after vintage buttons are from the 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s.

Where to Find Vintage Buttons

While there are all kinds of vintage buttons for sale on the Internet, the thrill of finding a garage-sale steal or a cache of valuable buttons in a relative's attic is a big part of the enjoyment of collecting. Garage sales, flea markets, estate sales, auctions and consignment shops are the stomping grounds for collectors on the hunt. Button shows and button conventions are also good places to search for the elusive last piece to complete a collection as well as get information about buttons and collecting.

Collectors' Clubs and Associations

There are clubs, societies and associations specializing in button collecting in many states, as well as a national organization, the National Button Society. There are also button collectors' organizations in other countries. The National Button Society and affiliated clubs and associations hold events and shows to give collectors the opportunity to display and compete with their collections and to educate collectors and the public about button collecting.

References

• "Antique & Collectible Buttons: Identification & Values (Volume II)"; Debra J. Wisniewski and Charles Lynch; 2001
• National Button Society
• Antique Button Collecting