Overview
This is a convex stamped brass uniform button bearing the raised legend 'CHICAGO CITY POLICE' encircling the municipal seal of Chicago. It features classic police insignia detailing with a lined background and rope-twist inner border.
Preliminary identification
Vintage Chicago City Police Brass Uniform Button
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Patrolling the Windy City from the late 1800s onward meant wearing heavy wool uniforms fastened with stamped brass buttons just like this one.
Maker / Origin
Uniform buttons of this era were typically produced by renowned American die-sinkers and button makers such as Waterbury Button Company or Scovill Manufacturing Company, which supplied municipal and military forces nationwide.
Condition & Value
Shows honest age-appropriate surface patina, mellowing to the brass, and light softening of high-relief details. Good vintage condition that retains appeal without aggressive over-cleaning.
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.