Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A metal Japanese uniform button, likely from a gakuran school jacket or institutional blazer, featuring a central Kanji character framed by a laurel or cherry blossom wreath against a horizontally lined background. These distinctive domed metal buttons were an essential feature of Japanese student and civil uniform traditions.
Story
In Japan, a longstanding tradition known as Dainibotan involves boys giving the second button from their gakuran jacket to their high school sweetheart upon graduation.
Maker / Origin
Likely japan.
Condition & Value
Displays honest age wear with minor surface scratching, light tarnish, and slight darkening in the recesses of the relief pattern. Excellent vintage preservation with crisp detailing intact.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.