Tiny Tombac Button Age: Everything You Need to Know
Tiny Tombac Button Age are small, metal fasteners made from a brass alloy called tombac. This alloy contains a high amount of copper and 5–20% zinc, sometimes with tin, lead, or arsenic added for color.
These buttons were popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries. They are often found by metal detector enthusiasts and collectors.
What Is a Tombac Button?
A tombac button is a one-piece metal button. Archaeologists call them “flat disc” buttons. They are made from tombac, an alloy of copper and zinc. This alloy gives the buttons a pale yellow-white color. Over time, they may develop a grey patina due to corrosion.
History and Use
Tiny tombac buttons date back to the 18th and early 19th centuries, with their peak popularity spanning from 1760 to 1800. These buttons were a staple in European and American fashion, reflecting the era’s craftsmanship and practicality. Made from a copper and zinc alloy, tombac offered an affordable yet visually appealing alternative to precious metals.
Their small size made them ideal for waistcoats, shirts, and delicate garments, while larger tombac buttons were used for coats. The durable “cast in boss” design, where a wire shank was molded into the button, ensured longevity. Tombac’s initial pale yellow-white hue, which developed a patina over time, complemented both civilian and military attire.
The simplicity and sturdiness of tiny tombac buttons made them a functional and aesthetic choice, leaving a lasting legacy as symbols of 18th-century fashion and ingenuity. Today, they are prized by collectors and historians alike.
Dating Tombac Buttons
Determining the Tiny Tombac Button Age involves looking at its design and manufacturing details. Most tombac buttons were produced between 1760 and 1800. The presence of a cast-in shank and the button’s size can provide clues about its age. For example, larger buttons were often used on coats, while smaller ones were for waistcoats or shirts.
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Identifying the Age of Tiny Tombac Buttons
Determining the Tiny Tombac Button Age involves examining its design, shank style, and color. The flat disc style of these buttons helps date them to between 1750 and 1820. The shank, typically set into a cylinder or piece of metal on the back, is another clue. This method, called “shank cast in boss,” was common in that era.
Tiny Tombac Button Design and Features
Tiny tombac buttons are usually round and flat. They may have plain faces or feature designs like the Tudor rose. The shank on the back was often made of copper alloy and cast as part of the button. This design made them durable and suitable for everyday clothing. Tiny tombac buttons are renowned for their simple yet elegant design and durable construction. These buttons, popular from 1760 to 1800, reflect the craftsmanship of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Their design and features not only served functional purposes but also added subtle decorative details to clothing.
Shape and Size
Most tombac buttons are round and flat, but variations include slightly convex or domed shapes. Their size varies, with tiny tombac buttons typically used on shirts and waistcoats, while larger ones adorned coats and outerwear. The smaller size made them ideal for delicate fabrics and more intricate garments.
Material Composition
Tombac buttons are crafted from a copper and zinc alloy, with occasional additions of tin, lead, or arsenic to adjust the alloy’s color and texture. This mix gave the buttons a distinct pale yellow-white tone when new, later developing a grayish patina due to oxidation.
Manufacturing Technique
A notable feature of tombac buttons is the “cast in boss” method. The button is made in a single piece, with a wire shank (the loop on the back) inserted during casting. This process created a sturdy and durable button, reducing the risk of the shank breaking off. The surface was often smooth and undecorated, but some buttons featured engraved patterns or stamped designs for added visual appeal.
Surface Finish and Decoration
Though manyTiny Tombac Button Age were plain, some were polished to a subtle shine. A few had simple etched designs or geometric patterns. The smooth surface and occasional decorations reflected both utility and style.
Characteristics of Tiny Tombac Buttons
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Brass alloy with high copper content and 5–20% zinc; may include tin, lead, or arsenic |
| Color | Originally pale yellow-white; develops grey patina over time |
| Design | Flat, round, with plain or engraved faces; often features like the Tudor rose |
| Shank Style | Shank cast in boss on the back, typically made of copper alloy |
| Production Era | Predominantly between 1750 and 1820 |
Color and Patina
Originally, tombac buttons had a pale yellow-white color due to their copper and zinc content. Over time, they develop a grey patina, especially when buried in the ground. This patina can help identify the button’s age and authenticity.
When freshly made, tombac buttons exhibited a pale yellow-white hue. This coloration resulted from the alloy’s composition, primarily copper with 5–20% zinc, and sometimes small amounts of tin, lead, or arsenic to modify the color. The high copper content gave the buttons a warm tone, while the zinc lightened it, resulting in the characteristic pale yellow-white appearance.
Factors Influencing Patina
Several factors contribute to the development and appearance of patina on tombac buttons:
- Environmental Conditions: Exposure to moisture, soil acidity, and air pollutants can accelerate oxidation, leading to a more pronounced patina.
- Composition Variations: The presence of additional elements like tin, lead, or arsenic can influence the color and texture of the patina. For instance, arsenic can impart a silvery-gray appearance to the alloy.
- Handling and Wear: Physical contact and usage can affect the patina’s development, with frequently handled buttons potentially exhibiting a different patina pattern compared to those left undisturbed.
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Collecting Tiny Tombac Buttons
Collectors value tiny tombac buttons for their historical significance and craftsmanship. The value of these buttons varies based on condition and rarity. As of now, they can sell for anywhere from about $10 to over $100.
Collecting Tiny Tombac Button Ages has become a fascinating hobby for both history enthusiasts and antique collectors. These buttons offer a tangible connection to the 18th and early 19th centuries, reflecting the craftsmanship and fashion of that era. Due to their age and historical significance, they are highly valued in the world of antique collecting.
Preservation and Care
Old buttons should be treated very carefully. To preserve their condition, avoid harsh cleaning methods that can damage the patina. Gently clean them with a soft brush and mild soap if necessary. Store them in a dry environment to prevent further corrosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tombac?
Tombac is a brass alloy with high copper content and 5–20% zinc. Sometimes, tin, lead, or arsenic is added for color.
How can I identify a tombac button?
Tombac buttons are typically flat, round, and have a pale yellow-white color that may turn grey over time. They often have a shank cast in boss on the back.
Are tombac buttons valuable?
The value of tombac buttons varies based on condition and rarity. They can sell for anywhere from about $10 to over $100.
How should I clean and preserve old tombac buttons?
Gently clean them with a soft brush and mild soap if necessary. Avoid harsh cleaning methods that can damage the patina. Store them in a dry environment to prevent further corrosion tiny tombac button age.
Conclusion
Tiny tombac buttons offer a glimpse into fashion and manufacturing techniques of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Their unique composition and design make them interesting artifacts for collectors and historians. Understanding their characteristics can help in identifying and preserving these small pieces of history.
