2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
1789, George Washington Inaugural Button, Albert WI-2, Large Size, 36 mm, Brass, Very Good. This rare variety has a Heraldic Eagle with patriotic shield at center, long ribbon being held in its beak with the motto "E PLURIBUS - UNUM". Thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen states, float in the fields about the eagle's head. The shank is missing and the button was probably bent long ago on the lower left side, then straightened. Despite the low grade, this piece has a lot of the original gilding still left in the recessed areas on the obverse. This is only the second example of this important, first Patriotic button we have offered (we sold another example in 1997 for over $3,000)! An important opportunity for the specialist or rarity collector.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.