Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a domed brass uniform button displaying the British Royal Coat of Arms, featuring the lion and unicorn supporting the quartered royal shield beneath the monarch's crown. Such buttons were widely produced for military general service tunics, consular corps, and livery attire across the British Empire.
Story
From the late Victorian era through World War II, British soldiers and officials fastened their coats with the Royal Arms. Millions crossed oceans, carrying the crown and lion onto fronts across the globe.
Maker / Origin
Major button manufacturers centered in Birmingham, England—such as Firmin & Sons, J.R. Gaunt & Son, or Smith & Wright—struck millions of official buttons under government contract, stamping their hallmarks on the reverse.
Condition & Value
Displays honest service wear, with softened high points and an appealing aged patina settled into the recessed relief. Such authentic uniform wear is expected and preferred by military collectors over heavily polished examples.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.