Unraveling the Mystery: The Small-Size ‘Linked States’ Washington Inaugural Button in Historical Context

The Weight of History in a Button’s Design

Few relics capture the imagination like an artifact that literally touched America’s founding moments. This so-called “Linked States” George Washington inaugural button isn’t just brass and patina—it’s a priceless slice of our democratic dawn. When a miniature 23-24mm version sold for $2,575.25 on eBay, collectors erupted like Paul Revere spotting lanterns. Was this a miraculous find or clever deception? To unravel this mystery, we’ll time-travel from Washington’s fragile 1789 inauguration to the patriotic excesses of 1889’s centennial celebrations.

Historical Significance: Washington’s Inauguration & Early Republic Symbolism

Picture New York’s Federal Hall on April 30, 1789—the air electric with possibility as Washington took his oath. Suddenly, every self-respecting patriot needed wearable propaganda. The iconic “Linked States” design, with its 13 interlocking rings, likely came from Philadelphia brass masters like Ackley or Shields. These artisans hammered thin brass sheets into political poetry, their creations flashing from the coats of Founding Fathers and officers.

“The 34mm size was standard for coat buttons of the late 18th century, as seen in authenticated examples from the Stack’s Bowers and Heritage Archives—pieces with such eye appeal they make collectors weak in the knees.”

Consider the context: a nation swapping the Articles of Confederation for the Constitution, desperate for unity. These buttons weren’t accessories—they were metallic manifestos. Their scarcity today (barely three dozen confirmed) proves they circulated naturally rather than being museum pieces. If you find one in mint condition with sharp strike details, its numismatic value could buy a decent colonial-era desk!

The Centennial Surge: 1889 Souvenirs & Their Legacy

Fast-forward to 1889—America throwing a 100th birthday bash for its first presidency. Factories like Scovill churned out commemoratives thicker than Washington’s legendary patience. These souvenirs copied revolutionary designs but betrayed themselves through:

• Metal Telltales: Sturdy centennial alloys versus the fragile brass whispers of 1789 originals
• Artistic Overreach: Heavy-handed engraving that screamed “made in the Gilded Age”
• Size Shenanigans: Experimental miniatures possibly created as charm bracelet novelties

Could our 23mm eBay mystery be an 1889 oddity? Forum sage @messydesk raised this theory, noting Jimmy Hayes’ definitive collection lacks such Lilliputian examples. Yet without provenance tying it to known manufacturers, this button’s origins remain murkier than a midnight ride.

A Question of Authenticity: Size, Craftsmanship & Provenance

The Size Dilemma That Doesn’t Measure Up

At 23-24mm, this button’s smaller than Washington’s smallest shoe buckle! Authentic 34mm specimens dominate collections—why would a revolutionary artisan create this rare variety? As one sharp-eyed collector mused: “Getting the size wrong by a centimeter is like forgetting the ‘W’ in Washington’s name.” Three theories emerge:

1. A ghostly undocumented 18th-century variant (possible but improbable)
2. An 1889 centennial experiment (the romantic favorite)
3. A modern fake counting on collector frenzy (the cold reality)

Craftsmanship Clues That Raise Eyebrows

Holding this button under metaphorical magnification reveals alarming signs:

• Lettering Lunacy: The “Linked States” banner wobbles like a drunken calligrapher’s work
• Edge Issues: Soft milling where originals show knife-sharp beveling
• Patina Problems: Chemical aging can’t replicate two centuries of honest oxidation

Provenance Red Flags Bigger Than Betsy Ross’s Flag

The seller’s reputation crumbles faster than a poorly stored broadside. Forum detectives uncovered their rap sheet: multiple strikes for selling counterfeits. Their brazen $5,000 Buy-It-Now relisting after the auction? That’s the numismatic equivalent of Paul Revere riding backwards.

Collectibility & Market Realities: Navigating Treacherous Waters

Despite concerns, that $2,575 price proves Washingtoniana’s enduring magic. Pristine 34mm examples command $4,000-$12,000—their collectibility soaring with provenance. Smart hunters prioritize:

• Pedigree Over Pretty: Auction house paper trails beat charming stories
• Expert Eyes: PNG authentication separates treasure from trash
• Science Savvy: XRF testing reveals metal truths no forger can fake

“In revolutionary relics, rarity and risk dance a dangerous minuet. That’s why we clutch our loupes and magnify mercilessly.”

Conclusion: A Button That Teaches Us All

This diminutive “Linked States” button embodies collecting’s eternal truths: the thrill of discovery, the sting of deception, and our unbreakable bond with history. While its size and shaky provenance likely condemn it as a curiosity rather than a national treasure, it serves as a masterclass in due diligence. For every collector chasing that revolutionary rush, let this be your battle cry—study the strike, question the patina, and never let excitement override expertise. After all, preserving history demands both passion and precision.

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