Appraisily

October 9, 2023

Civil War Button Identification: Expert Guide to Union and Confederate Relics

Learn how to identify authentic Civil War buttons with this comprehensive guide covering Union and Confederate designs, materials, values, and preservation techniques.

Authentic Civil War military uniform buttons showing Union eagle designs and Confederate state emblems from 1861-1865
By Appraisily Team Last updated October 9, 2023
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Introduction to Civil War Buttons</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Civil War buttons are among the most collectible and historically significant military artifacts from America&rsquo;s defining conflict. These small metal relics served both functional and symbolic purposes on military uniforms from 1861-1865, representing regiment, branch, rank, and allegiance. For collectors, metal detectorists, and history enthusiasts, understanding how to properly identify these buttons is essential for determining authenticity, historical context, and value.</div>

Civil War buttons continue to be discovered today, whether through archaeological digs at battle sites, metal detecting in historic areas, or among family heirlooms passed down through generations. This comprehensive guide will help you identify authentic Civil War buttons, understand their historical significance, and determine their potential value in today’s collector’s market.

Civil War Button Facts

  • Union forces used over 10 million uniform buttons during the war

  • Confederate buttons are typically 10-15x rarer than Union examples

  • Well-preserved buttons with backmarks can sell for $50-$2,500+

  • Most Civil War buttons were made of brass or gilt brass

  • Over 3,000 different button designs existed during the Civil War era

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Materials and Manufacturing</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the materials and manufacturing techniques used for Civil War buttons is the first step in proper identification. These characteristics can help distinguish authentic period buttons from later reproductions.</div>

Most Civil War buttons were made from brass, a durable alloy of copper and zinc. While brass was the predominant material, you might also encounter:

  • Gilt Brass: Brass buttons with a thin gold wash for officers
  • Pewter: Used for some Confederate buttons due to material shortages
  • Silver: Rare, typically only for high-ranking officers
  • Iron: Occasionally used for Confederate buttons late in the war

The manufacturing process typically involved:

  1. Stamping the design onto a brass disk
  2. Adding a shank (attachment loop) to the back
  3. Applying plating or wash if required (for officer buttons)
  4. Adding a manufacturer’s backmark (on most Union and some Confederate buttons)
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Union Button Identification</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Union buttons are more common than their Confederate counterparts and feature distinctive designs that make them relatively straightforward to identify.</div>

Federal Eagle Designs

The most common Union button design features an eagle with spread wings. These eagle buttons typically include:

  • An eagle with a shield on its breast
  • Wings spread in a horizontal or upward position
  • Often clutching arrows or an olive branch
  • “E Pluribus Unum” on a ribbon (on some designs)

Different branches of service had specific eagle designs:

  • Infantry: Eagle facing left with shield and arrows
  • Artillery: Eagle with crossed cannons below
  • Cavalry: Eagle with crossed sabers or the letter “C”
  • Navy: Eagle facing left standing on a horizontal anchor

State Buttons

Union state buttons featured state-specific designs and were worn by state militia units. Common examples include:

  • New York: State seal with “Excelsior” motto
  • Massachusetts: Arm holding sword with Latin motto
  • Pennsylvania: State coat of arms with horses
  • Connecticut: Grapevines with Latin motto

Button Sizes and Purposes

Civil War buttons came in different sizes for different uniform positions:

  • Coat Size: Large buttons, approximately 22-23mm in diameter
  • Cuff Size: Smaller buttons, approximately 14-15mm in diameter
  • Vest Size: Medium buttons, approximately 18-19mm in diameter

Backmarks

One of the most important identification features of authentic Union buttons is the backmark - a manufacturer’s stamp on the reverse side. Common Civil War-era manufacturers include:

  • Scovill Manufacturing Co.
  • Waterbury Button Co.
  • Horstmann & Sons
  • W.H. Smith

Backmarks often include the manufacturer’s name, location, and sometimes quality indicators like “EXTRA QUALITY” or “TREBLE GILT.”

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Confederate Button Identification</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Confederate buttons are generally rarer and more valuable than Union examples due to lower production numbers and the South&rsquo;s limited manufacturing capabilities during the war.</div>

Confederate Design Types

Confederate buttons fall into several categories:

  • Block “I”: Worn by Confederate Infantry
  • Block “A”: Worn by Confederate Artillery
  • Block “C”: Worn by Confederate Cavalry
  • State Seal Buttons: Featuring designs from Southern states
  • CSA Buttons: Featuring the letters “CSA” in various designs
  • Star Buttons: Featuring stars representing the Confederacy

Confederate State Buttons

Confederate state buttons are highly prized by collectors and feature designs specific to Southern states:

  • Alabama: State coat of arms with “ALABAMA” text
  • Georgia: State seal with pillars and arch
  • North Carolina: State capitol building
  • South Carolina: Palmetto tree and crescent
  • Virginia: Standing figure with spear and “SICA SEMPER TYRANNIS”

Confederate cavalry C button with chocolate brown patina

Confederate Button Manufacturers

Due to the Union blockade, the Confederacy relied heavily on imported buttons and local manufacturing. Look for these backmarks on Confederate buttons:

  • S.B. Smith & Co. (Charleston)
  • P. Tait & Co. (Limerick, Ireland)
  • Courtney & Tennent (Charleston)
  • Hyde & Goodrich (New Orleans)

Many Confederate buttons lack backmarks entirely, especially those made later in the war when materials were scarce.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Dating and Authenticating Civil War Buttons</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Properly dating and authenticating Civil War buttons requires careful examination of multiple characteristics.</div>

Visual Examination

Begin with a visual inspection looking for:

  • Appropriate Patina: Civil War buttons should have a natural aged appearance
  • Wear Patterns: Look for authentic wear consistent with age and use
  • Shank Style: Wire shanks or cast-in-place shanks are typical of the period
  • Design Details: Compare to known authentic examples in reference books

Authentication Checklist

Check these factors when authenticating Civil War buttons

  • Button shows appropriate patina for its age (150+ years)
  • Backmark matches known Civil War era manufacturers
  • Design is consistent with documented Civil War patterns
  • Material appears to be period-appropriate (usually brass)
  • Shank style matches Civil War era construction methods
  • Weight and thickness consistent with period examples

Backmark Analysis

Backmarks are crucial for authentication:

  • Research the manufacturer to confirm they were operating during the Civil War
  • Compare the exact backmark style to reference guides
  • Look for appropriate font styles and text layouts consistent with the period

Context and Provenance

The button’s discovery context can provide important authentication clues:

  • Buttons found at documented Civil War sites have higher likelihood of authenticity
  • Family heirlooms with documented provenance are more trustworthy
  • Collections with established provenance may contain authentic examples
Collection of authentic Union and Confederate Civil War buttons with patina
Authentic Civil War buttons showing various designs and natural patina from over 150 years of aging
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Common Reproduction Warning Signs</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">The market is unfortunately filled with modern reproductions. Here&rsquo;s how to spot them:</div>
  1. Machine-made Shanks: Modern machine-made shanks look different from hand-attached period examples
  2. Artificial Patina: Chemical treatments used to simulate age often have an unnatural appearance
  3. Incorrect Backmarks: Reproductions may have inaccurate or fantasy backmarks
  4. Wrong Materials: Modern alloys have different compositions than 19th-century brass
  5. Casting Flaws: Many reproductions are cast from original buttons and show loss of detail

Civil War Button Value Ranges

Current market values based on 2023 auction and dealer prices

  </tbody>
</table>

Evolution of American Military Buttons

  1. 1775-1783

    Revolutionary War Era

    Early American military buttons featured simple designs with regimental numbers or state symbols. Typically made of pewter or brass with hand-soldered shanks.
  2. 1784-1860

    Early Republic and Antebellum

    Standardized Federal eagle designs emerged. Manufacturing improved with machine-stamped designs and better attachment methods. Backmarks became common.
  3. 1861-1865

    Civil War Period

    Peak production of military buttons with highly standardized designs. Union buttons manufactured in large quantities while Confederate buttons varied widely due to supply constraints.
  4. 1866-1900

    Post-Civil War

    Design modifications to Federal buttons, including changes to eagle positioning and shield details. Improvements in gilding technology.
  5. 1900-Present

    Modern Era

    Transition to more standardized buttons across service branches. Introduction of plastic and synthetic materials for some applications.
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Preservation and Care</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Proper preservation is essential to maintain both the condition and value of Civil War buttons.</div>

Cleaning Considerations

The most important rule for Civil War button preservation is: less is more. Never aggressively clean historic buttons, as their patina is part of their value and authenticity.

For buttons discovered through metal detecting:

  1. Gently rinse with distilled water to remove soil
  2. Allow to air dry completely
  3. Use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) for stubborn dirt
  4. NEVER use metal polishes, chemical cleaners, or abrasives

For buttons from collections or family heirlooms:

  1. Avoid cleaning if the button is stable
  2. Handle with clean cotton gloves or clean hands
  3. If necessary, dust with a very soft brush
  4. Store properly to prevent further deterioration

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage will help preserve your buttons for generations:

  • Use acid-free paper or archival containers
  • Store in a climate-controlled environment
  • Avoid plastic containers that can trap moisture
  • Consider individual coin holders for valuable specimens
  • Keep detailed records of provenance and acquisition information

Notable Civil War Button Auction Sales

Recent auction highlights from major sales

Category Price Notes
Common Union Eagle Buttons $35-$150 Condition dependent; higher with clear backmarks
Union State Buttons $75-$300 Rarity varies by state; NY most common
Confederate "CSA" Buttons $300-$1,200 Significantly higher for rare variants
Confederate State Buttons $250-$2,500+ SC, GA, and NC buttons particularly valuable
Confederate Naval Buttons $500-$3,000+ Among the rarest Confederate buttons 
  </tbody>
</table>
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Metal Detecting for Civil War Buttons</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Many Civil War buttons are still being discovered today through responsible metal detecting at historical sites.</div>

If you’re interested in searching for Civil War buttons through metal detecting, keep these important considerations in mind:

  1. Research and Permissions: Always obtain proper permissions and permits. Never detect on protected battlefields or national parks without authorization.

  2. Equipment Selection: Use a metal detector with good discrimination capabilities that can distinguish between button materials and other metals.

  3. Responsible Recovery: Use minimally invasive techniques to recover artifacts, and always fill your holes.

  4. Documentation: Record precise GPS coordinates and context of each find.

  5. Legal Considerations: Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal laws regarding artifact recovery and ownership.

  6. Archaeological Ethics: Consider working with professional archaeologists or historical societies to ensure your finds contribute to historical knowledge.

External Resources for Civil War Button Collectors

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Recommended Reference Books</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">For serious collectors and enthusiasts, these reference books are invaluable for Civil War button identification.</div>

  1. “Civil War Uniform Buttons” by Albert Tice - The standard reference with detailed illustrations of both Union and Confederate buttons.

  2. “Uniform Buttons of the United States” by Warren K. Tice - Comprehensive guide covering military buttons from 1776-1865.

  3. “Confederate Buttons, Badges and Insignia” by Francis A. Lord - Focused specifically on Confederate materials with excellent photographs.

  4. “A Guide to Civil War Period Uniform Buttons” by Michael J. McAfee - Detailed information on button styles with historical context.

  5. “United States Military Buttons of the Land Service 1787-1902” by David F. Johnson - Excellent for dating and identifying Federal buttons.

Common Questions About Civil War Button Identification

What were Civil War buttons made of?
Civil War buttons were primarily made of brass, a copper and zinc alloy. Union buttons were typically high-quality gilt brass, while Confederate buttons varied more in materials due to Southern supply shortages. As the war progressed, Confederate buttons sometimes used iron, pewter, or whatever metals were available. Officers’ buttons in both armies might be higher quality with gold plating or gilding, while enlisted men’s buttons were generally ungilded brass.
Did Waterbury make Confederate buttons?
Yes, Waterbury Button Company did produce buttons that ended up being used by Confederate forces, although not directly. Before the Civil War began, Waterbury was a major button supplier to Southern states. When the war broke out, the Union blockade prevented direct shipments, but Waterbury buttons still reached the Confederacy through intermediaries in Europe. According to Waterbury’s own company history, “The South uses intermediaries in Europe to obtain Waterbury buttons for its troops.” However, most Confederate buttons came from Southern manufacturers or were imported from England and Ireland.
How can I tell if a Civil War button is authentic?

Authenticating Civil War buttons involves examining several key characteristics:

  1. Backmarks: Check if the manufacturer’s mark matches known Civil War-era companies.
  2. Material composition: Period buttons should be brass or another period-appropriate metal.
  3. Shank style: Civil War buttons typically have loop shanks that were hand-soldered.
  4. Patina: Authentic buttons have a natural aged patina, not a chemical or artificial appearance.
  5. Design details: Compare to reference books for accurate period designs.
  6. Weight and thickness: Reproductions are often heavier than originals.

Consulting with experienced collectors or professional appraisers is recommended for valuable or rare examples.

What's the value of a Civil War button?

Civil War button values vary widely based on several factors:

  • Type: Confederate buttons generally command higher prices than Union buttons
  • Rarity: Unusual units or limited production buttons fetch premium prices
  • Condition: Well-preserved examples with clear details are worth more
  • Provenance: Buttons with documented history can be more valuable
  • Backmark: Buttons with clear manufacturer marks tend to be worth more

Typical price ranges:

  • Common Union eagle buttons: $35-$150
  • Union state buttons: $75-$300
  • Confederate general service buttons: $300-$1,200
  • Confederate state buttons: $250-$2,500+
  • Rare Confederate naval buttons: Up to $3,000 or more

Prices continue to rise as these artifacts become increasingly scarce.

Where can I find Civil War buttons?

Civil War buttons can be found through various sources:

  1. Metal detecting at historically documented Civil War sites (with proper permissions)
  2. Antique shops specializing in militaria
  3. Civil War collector shows and relic exhibitions
  4. Online auction sites like eBay (exercise caution regarding authenticity)
  5. Specialized Civil War artifact dealers
  6. Estate sales in areas with Civil War history
  7. Inheritance from family with Civil War connections

Remember that buttons found on federal lands like National Battlefields are protected by law and cannot be legally collected. Always research local, state, and federal regulations before metal detecting.

How should I clean a Civil War button I found?

The cardinal rule for Civil War buttons is minimal intervention. For newly discovered buttons:

  1. Gently rinse with distilled water to remove loose dirt
  2. Use a soft brush (like a soft toothbrush) if necessary
  3. Allow to air dry completely
  4. NEVER use metal polishes, chemicals, or abrasive cleaners
  5. Do not attempt to polish or restore the original shine
  6. Preserve the patina as it’s considered part of the button’s value and authenticity

Remember that improper cleaning can dramatically reduce a button’s value. When in doubt, consult with a professional conservator, especially for rare or valuable specimens.

What are the most common Union Army button designs?

The most common Union Army button designs include:

  1. General Service Eagle: Eagle with shield on breast, spread wings, usually holding arrows and olive branch
  2. Infantry: Eagle design with “I” script below
  3. Cavalry: Eagle design with “C” script or crossed sabers below
  4. Artillery: Eagle design with crossed cannons below
  5. State buttons: Featuring state seals and symbols from Northern states
  6. Navy: Eagle standing on a horizontal fouled anchor

General Service eagle buttons are the most frequently found Union buttons, as they were mass-produced throughout the war for use across multiple branches and units.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Conclusion</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Civil War buttons represent a tangible connection to America&rsquo;s pivotal historical conflict. These small artifacts offer remarkable insights into military organization, supply chains, manufacturing capabilities, and the daily lives of soldiers who fought in the war.</div>

For collectors, the hunt for authentic Civil War buttons combines historical research, material analysis, and archaeological knowledge. Whether you’re examining a family heirloom or a recent metal detector find, the identification process connects you directly to the individuals who wore these uniform elements over 150 years ago.

As you develop your expertise in identifying Civil War buttons, remember that proper authentication, preservation, and documentation enhance both the historical value and financial worth of these artifacts. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be better equipped to distinguish genuine Civil War buttons from reproductions and appreciate the stories these small relics have to tell.

Authentic Civil War buttons are becoming increasingly scarce as time passes, making knowledge of proper identification more valuable than ever. Whether you’re a serious collector, casual enthusiast, or metal detectorist, we hope this guide helps you understand and appreciate these fascinating artifacts of American history.

Item Price Date Auction House
Confederate South Carolina Palmetto Button $3,250 February 2023 Heritage Auctions
New York 7th Regiment "National Guard" Button $785 November 2022 Cowan's Auctions
Confederate Naval Officer's Button by Courtney & Tennent $4,500 April 2023 James D. Julia
Union Cavalry Officer's Gilt Button Set (6) $1,250 January 2023 eBay
Confederate Artillery "A" Button $950 March 2023 Skinner Auctioneers