Supreme Quality Gilt Brass or Gold-Plated Uniform Button
Button (Clothing/Uniform Accessory) · Yellow Gold plating or gilding; rich brassy undertones. Likely a high-copper alloy base with a thin gold-colored finish.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gilt over brass/bronze alloy. The 'Supreme Quality' stamp is a typical trade mark for premium button manufacturers rather than a gold purity hallmark.
Type
Button (Clothing/Uniform Accessory)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gilt over brass/bronze alloy. The 'Supreme Quality' stamp is a typical trade mark for premium button manufacturers rather than a gold purity hallmark.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating or gilding; rich brassy undertones. Likely a high-copper alloy base with a thin gold-colored finish.
Weight
3-7 grams. Traditional metal buttons of this size are relatively lightweight compared to solid gold versions.
Description
This is a vintage metal button, likely from a uniform or high-end livery garment. It features a domed or flat-pressed face (not visible) and a reverse side marked with 'SUPREME QUALITY'. The golden hue suggests a gilding process intended to mimic solid gold while providing the durability of brass. It represents a piece of sartorial history, typically used by banks, military units, or luxury hotels.
Key Features
The 'SUPREME QUALITY' backmark is the primary identifier, indicating a high-grade professional garment component rather than jewelry. The central shank is designed for heavy-duty use.
Color & Finish
Warm yellow-gold color with a matte, slightly aged patina. The finish shows some oxidation and dimpling consistent with vintage base metals rather than high-karat solid gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'SUPREME QUALITY' in a circular arrangement on the reverse side around a central eyelet/shank. This is a manufacturer's quality mark commonly found on 19th and 20th-century buttons.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15mm to 22mm in diameter (standard blazer or tunic size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible. The design is purely metallic with stamped typography.
Clasp & Closure
Metal shank/eyelet closure. This would be sewn directly onto a garment or secured with a cotter pin.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The item features a circular shank construction for fabric attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck construction. The lettering is embossed through a mechanical press. The shank is soldered or braised to the backplate, showing robust industrial joining techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the 'Supreme Quality' text (which is a trade slogan, not a hallmark) and the greenish patina on the shank which indicates copper-based alloy beneath a surface coating.
Origin & Maker
Likely American or British manufacture. Brands like Waterbury Button Co. or various Birmingham manufacturers often used 'Supreme Quality' or 'Extra Rich' backmarks.
Era & Period
Vintage/Military Industrial era (Late 19th Century to Mid-20th Century). Indicators include the typography style and the 'quality' backmark common in livery and military tailoring.
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1950 based on the stamping technique and the preservation of the gilding.
Cultural Significance
Buttons like these are significant in numismatics and military history, often used by archaeologists to date shipwrecks or battle sites. They represent the transition from hand-made tailoring to mass-produced industrial quality.
Condition Notes
Good/Very Good. There is visible surface oxidation and 'greening' consistent with aged brass. The stamping remains crisp and legible. Gilding shows wear along the edges.
Value Estimate
$5 - $25. Value is driven by historical/collectible interest rather than gold melt value. If associated with a specific rare military unit, value could be higher. Melt value is negligible.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or metal polishes that can strip the thin layer of gold plating. Store in a dry environment to prevent further brass oxidation (verdigris).
Similar Items
Military livery buttons, blazer buttons from brands like Brooks Brothers, or early 20th-century police buttons. Solid 14K gold buttons exist but would typically carry purity stamps like '14K' or a hallmark.
Interesting Facts
In the 18th and 19th centuries, buttons were a major indicator of social status. 'Gilt' buttons were specifically mentioned in naval and military regulations to denote rank and distinguish from plain brass worn by lower ratings.