Order the Historic Button Type Collection

Learn to identify old buttons by their material, form, and manufacturing method through direct comparison with historical specimens. This guide is designed for archaeologists and those interested in historical clothing and adornment, with specific diagnostic information regarding how buttons may appear when recovered archaeologically. The collection consists of 14 durable plastic reference cards, each presenting a different button material with high-resolution color photographs. Two additional cards provide an introduction, key terms, and references. The deluxe collection includes a total of 63 historic (non-archaeological) buttons flexibly mounted for easy reference of front and back sides. The basic collection includes 20 mounted buttons. Alternatively, the cards are available on their own and as a PDF for easy reference anywhere!

Please contact buttons@temperedarchaeology.com to discuss custom orders, classroom sets, and volume discounts.