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An incredibly rare, historically significant piece of early Americana: an authentic, original 1789 George Washington Inaugural Clothing Button. This is the highly sought-after "Eagle and Star" variety (referenced in Albert's Buttons as WI-12C), manufactured to celebrate Washington taking office as the first President of the United States.Key Features & Collector Diagnostics:* Diameter: Exactly 35mm-the classic, oversized "Dandy" coat size intended for civilian overcoats.
* Obverse Design: Features the Federal Heraldic Eagle facing left (dexter) with a shield on its chest, holding arrows and a laurel branch. A prominent 12-point sunburst star sits directly above the eagle's head. The diagnostic 63-dot incised border is visible.
* Reverse Design: Plain, solid-cast back consistent with period manufacturing. The original copper wire shank is broken at the base, leaving the historic solder joint stump cleanly visible in the center.
* Condition / Patina: This is a genuine dug relic displaying a beautiful, heavy, authentic green verdigris patina. The details of the eagle, wings, and star points remain recognizable through the centuries-old corrosion. The item is being sold exactly as found and has not been chemically cleaned, preserving its full historical integrity.Provenance & Authenticity:
This button checks off every single physical and technical metric of a genuine late 18th-century WI-12C strike. It is a phenomenal addition to any early American political token, medal, or metal-detecting relic collection.Please study the high-resolution photos carefully to judge the condition and details for yourself. The item pictured is the exact item you will receive.
