Identifying Confederate Infantry Buttons

Confederate infantry buttons are a popular collectible among Civil War enthusiasts. These buttons, often made of brass or silver, provide a tangible connection to the soldiers who wore them. Identifying these buttons can be a rewarding experience, but it requires a good understanding of the different types of buttons used by Confederate soldiers and their variations.

Types of Confederate Infantry Buttons

Confederate infantry buttons can be broadly classified into three main categories:

• Early Buttons: These buttons were often made of brass and featured a simple design, typically a star or a circle with a raised center. They were used during the early years of the war, before the Confederacy developed a more standardized system.
• Standard Buttons: These buttons were introduced in 1862 and became the most common type of Confederate infantry button. They were made of brass, silver, or a combination of both, and featured a variety of designs, including a star, a circle with a raised center, or a shield with the Confederate States of America initials (CSA). These buttons were often stamped with the manufacturer's name or a date.
• Late Buttons: These buttons were produced towards the end of the war, when the Confederacy was facing severe shortages of materials. They were often made of inferior materials, such as tin or iron, and may have a simpler design than earlier buttons.

Identifying Features

When identifying Confederate infantry buttons, it's important to consider the following features:

• Material: Brass, silver, tin, or iron are the most common materials used.
• Design: The design of the button can vary significantly, but common features include a star, a circle with a raised center, or a shield with the CSA initials.
• Size: Buttons come in various sizes, but most Confederate infantry buttons are approximately 1 inch in diameter.
• Stamping: Many buttons are stamped with the manufacturer's name, date, or other identifying marks.
• Condition: The condition of the button can affect its value. Buttons in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, are more valuable than those that are damaged or heavily worn.

Resources for Identification

There are a number of resources available to help you identify Confederate infantry buttons. These include:

• Books: Many books have been published on the subject of Confederate military buttons. These books often provide detailed descriptions and illustrations of different button types.
• Websites: Several websites offer information and images of Confederate buttons. These websites can be a valuable resource for identifying buttons and learning about their history.
• Collecting Clubs: Many Civil War collecting clubs have members who specialize in buttons. These clubs often hold meetings and events where members can share their knowledge and help others with identification.

Conclusion

Identifying Confederate infantry buttons requires careful attention to detail and a good understanding of the different types of buttons used by Confederate soldiers. By using the resources available, you can learn to identify these buttons and appreciate their historical significance.