Antiques & Collectables, Coins, Gold & Silver (14% Buyers Commission)
This collection consists of British military, civil service, and livery buttons, dating from the late Victorian era through to the mid-20th century. The items are constructed from gilt brass, white metal, and bronze-finished metal. Military examples include buttons for the Royal Air Force featuring the eagle and King’s crown, and the Royal Artillery with a field gun motif. Other regimental designs present include crowns, lions, and fleurs-de-lis. Home Front and civil service items are represented by a white metal Air Raid Precautions (ARP) button and a specimen inscribed Engineers around the bottom edge. Several livery buttons display heraldic devices, such as coats of arms and family crests. Maker’s marks visible on the reverse of several specimens include J.R. Gaunt and Son (stamped Gaunt London and Gaunt Birmingham) and Buttons Limited Birmingham.
Condition report:
The collection is in mixed condition. While many buttons maintain a bright gilt surface, others exhibit surface wear, tarnish, and oxidisation consistent with age and use. One button shows significant green verdigris. Most shanks appear to be intact where visible, though one button is shown with a detached backplate.
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