Washington Buttons
George Washington Inaugural Button with American Eagle With Incuse Impression of Eagle & Star Design on Reverse
(1789) George Washington Inaugural Button, American Eagle with Shield Displayed, 63 border indents, With Incuse Impression of Eagle & Star design clearly seen on the reverse together with its Original Shank, Fine.
35 mm. Albert WI 12C. A rare design American Eagle with Shield displayed with Heraldic Estoile (a Star with wavy points or rays) with alternate wavy lines above. The outer surround device having 63 border indents. The color is an even rich brown and uniform slight fine surface porosity. The original shank is fully intact but bent over to one side, remarkably also with the definitive Incuse Impression of Eagle & Star design clearly seen on the reverse. This is only the fourth example of any of the Albert 12 variants that we have offered. These rare buttons were made for the occasion of George Washington's Inauguration in commemoration of the event as our country's first President in 1789. They were made not only for use on Washington's Inaugural apparel, but also for offered for sale to dignitaries and the general public as souvenirs of the momentous event. Currently, George Washington Inaugural Buttons are among the most popular of all the Washingtonia collectable items.