Updated at 11:50 pm: Both sets have been sold. . . . Mount Vernon Washington Inaugural Souvenir Button Set — The "Memorable Era" or "Dated Eagle" Button. I've seen these listed as 24k gold plated, but am not certain of that.According to Mount Vernon, describing the original button: "[T]his button was made shortly before March 4th 1789, the day Washington's inauguration was originally scheduled. It is believed that George Washington's inaugural suit of brown cloth from the Hartford Manufactory was adorned with gilt buttons decorated with an eagle by the engraver William Rollinson. However, no surviving examples have been located, and no direct relation between those buttons and the 'Dated Eagle' type has been established." Stieff Smithsonian George Washington Button Set — Linked States design. Pewter. This set of buttons was made by Stieff for the Smithsonian or under license from them and contains three coat buttons and four sleeve buttons. This linked states design appeared on Washington inaugural buttons.According to Mount Vernon, the design "is derived from the design first used on the Continental Currency fractional notes issued in February of 1776. The popular design was repeatedly used on currency and coinage and has been imprinted on regimental flags, and prints throughout the revolutionary and early national period. The combination of Washington's cipher and the chain of states visually testifies to the importance of a strong executive for the nation's government." Thanks to History_Dame on X for the photo. Shipping: 5.95 each. Please allow one week for shipping.
