Two Piece Flat Brass Button

[TomB]

Yesterday while hunting an old resort area that was established in 1850, that I suspect was used as a camp for the 45th Virginia infantry in 1861, I recovered a two piece brass button.

I tried electrolysis to clean the button but still cant make out the front or back of the button.

I have seen very few two piece flat buttons from the civil war era so I suspect it is older.

Any ideas about the button or how to clean it so that I can see the lettering and emblem would be appreciated.

TomB

 

[RonNH]

Tom, it may be too far gone to get any good detail on it. You have to be real careful with electrolysis, as zapping anything copper or brass can damage it but I suspect your button wasn't hurt any more by the process. You could ask the guys over at the TD Relic Forum if they recognize it, they are like an encyclopedia of CW items. I haven't dug enough from that period to guess what it is but it's a good find. Ron

 

[TomB]

Thanks Ron..and you are so right...I should have known better..thanks. I have added a side view of the button to show that it is flat. Also I'm going to find a microscope to see If I can make out any letters on the back of the button.

Tom