George Washington Inaugural Button. Eagle and Star. Cobb-17, DeWitt-GW 1789-3, for type. Silvered-Copper. Extremely Fine, Light Environmental Damage.

34.5 mm. 98.9 grains. Original shank. Single piece. 63 indentations around the border. This is an uncommonly well preserved example with nearly 50% of the original silvering still present on the front. The design elements are sharp, and the in hand appearance on both sides is quite smooth with no significant marks. We do note a swirl of light verdigris within the eagle's right wing, as well as equally light encrustation here and there around the border on the back. The original shank is solidly attached, and the button is smooth with no bends or other significant problems. All in all, an outstanding example that is sure to have no difficulty finding its way into an advanced cabinet.

From our Baltimore Auction of October 2018, lot 48.