Overview
This is a die-struck metal uniform button, typically made for a Japanese student gakuran jacket or civil service coat. It features a stylized kanji character framed by a laurel or floral wreath over a fine horizontal-lined ground.
Preliminary identification
Japanese Gakuran Uniform Button, likely Taisho or Showa Era
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Japanese school uniforms adapted Prussia-inspired military brass buttons in the late Meiji era. Each school or district cast distinctive insignia, turning functional fastenings into badges of academic pride.
Maker / Origin
Such buttons were produced by specialized metal badge and button makers across major Japanese cities like Osaka and Tokyo, supplying academies and regional middle schools.
Condition & Value
Displays honest vintage wear, with light surface patina, minor rubbing to high-relief points, and intact borders. Retaining clear relief detail helps preserve collector value.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.