~ 1792 – 1798 ~
The New U.S. Army,
General Anthony Waynes Legionaries 

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     The U.S. Army was established by Congress on June 3 1784, during the last days of the Revolutionary War. This new Army was to replace the disbanded Continental Army that same year. The Continental Army was disbanded for several reasons, but for the most part the soldiers were tired and wanted to go home. The remaining regiments in New Windsor were just ceremoniously staying there until the treaty was ratified in France. There was also a distrust by Patriot state colonists any form of national government who could wield sovereign power over them. Nevertheless, to have a government with a large standing army. As a strategic balance of power toward state sovereignty over national government power the 1781 Articles of Confederation was written in a way that states held sovereignty and would be responsible for levying their own taxes, and establishing state militia units to protect state rights of individuals within. This left the national government week on purpose. The Articles of Confederation was also a duel edge sword. It left the national government vulnerable both in foreign matters as well as its domestic wellbeing. The national government wasn’t unified over state interests and had to rely on the generosity of the individual states to for its on going expenditures and war time debt. This created a dilemma for the country’s 1st President George Washington who understood the importance of a national standing trained army. Not only was there a problem domestically with the Native American Indians, but there was also a question of protecting the country’s commercial interests and sovereignty on the worlds stage. The American Gentry who had stakes in arboriculture and agriculture exports was in dire need of some kind of federal government backed protection outside of its existing small navy. 

     After the Revolution a civil unrest began to slowly develop among the landed gentry and America’s western frontier prospering countrymen. There was a lack of law and order in unchartered territories, and protection against the Native American Indians who didn’t take kindly to western settlement. State based militia was only working in established city communities. There was an inadequacy in regards to western settler movement and frontiersman who ventured over the Appalachian mountains. President Washington once a the former Continental Army General knew there was a complete lack military discipline, etiquette, and professional conduct by all state militia soldiers. He saw the paradox of what he fought for during the revolution and now choosing to be an advocate for a national standing army. He knew there would be many state representatives and Congressman who would lobby against any kind of big government which would lead to the diminishment of state sovereignty and taxation. 

     President Washington understood there was a slowly growing fear with the European war of Great Britain and France in the background that the United States could not rely upon foreign mercenaries to be the defense of our nation. On a domestic front, matters seemed to be worsening with Native Indian relations. General Arthur St. Clair’s disastrous defeat at the Battle of the Wabash by Blue Jacket and Little Turtle’s tribal confederacy caused a fearful outcry for some kind of national government protection by the citizenry. State based militia forces uniting and calling to arms was not as simple as it was during the American Revolution. This was exemplified by General St. Clair’s forces during engagement. His military force was drawn principally from the various state’s militias; who were unorganized, unprofessional, and lacked the necessary unified training. This defeat really set an impression on President Washington and Congressional leaders from various states. They finally understood that states militia forces are not an adequate enough force for the nations defensive needs. Unfortunately, in this point in early American history President Washington was up against a wall. There was too many anti-nationalists in the south who disapproved and lacked trust in a national Army. 

 

     With staunch persistent recommendations from Henry Knox the Secretary of War, President George Washington’s answer was “The Legion of the United States,” and he appointed his old friend lieutenant Anthony Wayne to lead this new American Legion. The Legion ended-up being established with much controversy by an act of Congress in 1791. Washington’s legion would become America’s new national standing Army. General Anthony Wayne decided upon a simple military structure for the Legion because of the monetary limitations for supplies, and the number of soldiers Congress would pay for. The Legion would be composed of four sub-legions, and each would be commanded by a commissioned Brigadier General. The sub-legions were going to be all self-contained units which would be composed of two battalions of infantry, a rifle battalion, a troop of dragoons, and a battery of artillery. A light infantry unit would strictly be used for domestic skirmishes against the Native American Indians. These Light Infantry soldiers were armed with Pennsylvania long rifles, and there function would be to screen for the heavy infantry units. So in a nut shell, were looking at a force that would combine Cavalry, Artillery, Light and Heavy Infantry, into one brigade sized force which would be divisible into separate stand-alone combined arms teams.The legions were sectioned off into a somewhat strategic allowance for small army positioning. Seperatley, having one regiment offer protection and guard the new Western Frontier for territory expansion. Another regiment would act as a Federal Artillery battery unit to guard the arsenal at West Point. ect.

     In June of 1792, this new American Legion started to recruit and train in Fort Lafayette, which was located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The first two sub-legions were actually created from the 1st and 2nd regiments of the Continental Army, and the 3rd and 4th sub-legions were raised from new recruits. By November of 1792, the Legion moved to the first U.S. basic training facility in Legionville, PA. This new frontier fort was built on the orders of General Anthony Wayne on the banks of the Ohio River. General Wayne also was accredited for establishing various forts along the “line of march” to ensure the adequate re-supply for his soldiers. These forts were garrisoned with the newly trained legionnaires. It was their primary task to guard the entire frontier with limited soldiers and supplies. The Legion’s scarcity of resources led to troop problems that were unforeseen.

 

     After the death of General Anthony Wayne, the US Legion was officially disbanded in 1796. But, in fact, what happen was his second in command General James Wilkinson (who was a secret spy for the Spanish Government) had his own visions of a what the American Army structure needed to be in order to be effective on the western frontier. Meaning, he often drafted his own regulations and re-structured the Army into a more formidable system that he felt was necessary to meet the times. General Wilkinson was blamed by bureaucrats in office for trying to undo everything General Wayne had created; including the whole Legion and sub-legion structure. There wasn’t a unity or understanding connection between what the Army needed or needed to do to properly fulfill its role.

     For button collectors the first notable thing General Wilkinson did was to break apart the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Sub-Legions, and turned them into the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Regiments. There are other structural introductions, but this one should help give a basic foundation to understand the early US Army button regiment designations. I have come to believe that understanding US Army Insignia and button patterns comes from what was issued between 1796, and the War of 1812.  

 

 

1792 The United States Army

Color: A Pewter Gray with Clay Red.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 24-A:                      RV 35
Variation: Eagle with Upraised Wings / Long Thin Neck / Federal Shield with 5 Stars Inside the Field.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition,  A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: There appears to be two known patterns for this early 1792, Army button. The larger coat size button depicts 5 Arrows in the eagle’s right talon instead of three. This is contrary to most federal related insignia for two reasons. First, there should be 3 Arrows to represent the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches of government. Second, the Eagle’s head is incorrectly facing the arrows which indicates a preference for war. This could be a supportive statement for support of the French War in Europe. This is also contradictory to the United States Great Seal, and the U.S. official position for the country’s preference for peace. Next, the Federal Shield has 5 Stars and 5 Stripes instead of 13 Stars and Stripes to represent the states. This also does not reflect the 5th state to join the union (Connecticut in Jan 9th 1787). So, there was a conscious choice too use the number 5, but is unclear to me at this point. The smaller cuff pattern, the button correctly depicts 3 Arrows in the Eagle’s left talon, and the eagle’s head is correctly facing the Olive Branch for peace. There is also No Stars in the top portion of the federal shield, but this could simply be due to size. Collectors should also note it does contain 5 Stripes as the coat to signify something. The coat button depicts a Federal Type Eagle with Upraised Wings facing right with a with a Long Thin Neck. In this variant, the Eagle is facing right towards the arrows. In the eagle’s right talon is a small bundle of Five Arrows pointing upward towards the right. In it’s left talon is a short Olive Branch with 3 Petals. Over the eagle’s chest is a Federal Shield. There are 5 Stars that go horizontally across the top portion of the shield, and 5 Stripes that go vertically underneath. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field. Some collectors nickname this, “The Turkey Eagle” because of the eagle’s depiction. Collectors should obtain any specimen when becomes available.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat one-piece molded button with a loop shank. No back mark, but mold line present from casting.

The Jacob W. Collection.~
This was Found in the 1920’s when Workers Dug up A Walkway of an 18th Century Home.

Robert’s Notes: There was a 1960’s recasting in pewter from an original specimen. This reproduction can be identified by a “13” on the reverse. The shank is a wedge shank with a drilled hole (Imrie/Risley). Collectors should be ware, some unorthodox people file the “13” away and also the wedge shank down to fake a loop shank.

 

 

1792 The United States Army

Color: A Pewter Gray.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 13.61mm x 14.46mm.      Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 24-Av: Unlisted Size: RV 100
Variation: Eagle with Upraised Wings / Short Stout Neck / Federal Stripe Shield without Stars Inside the Field.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, An Exceptional Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: There appears to be two known patterns for this early 1792, Army button. The larger coat size button depicts 5 Arrows in the eagle’s right talon instead of three. This is contrary to most federal related insignia for two reasons. First, there should be 3 Arrows to represent the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches of government. Second, the Eagle’s head is incorrectly facing the arrows which indicates a preference for war. This could be a supportive statement for support of the French War in Europe. This is also contradictory to the United States Great Seal, and the U.S. official position for the country’s preference for peace. Next, the Federal Shield has 5 Stars and 5 Stripes instead of 13 Stars and Stripes to represent the states. This also does not reflect the 5th state to join the union (Connecticut in Jan 9th 1787). So, there was a conscious choice too use the number 5, but is unclear to me at this point. The smaller cuff pattern, the button correctly depicts 3 Arrows in the Eagle’s left talon, and the eagle’s head is correctly facing the Olive Branch for peace. There is also No Stars in the top portion of the federal shield, but this could simply be due to size. Collectors should also note it does contain 5 Stripes as the coat to signify something. The button depicts a Federal Type Eagle with Upraised Wings facing right with a Short Stout Neck. In the eagle’s left talon is a small bundle of Three Arrows pointing upward to the left. In the eagle’s right talon is a short Olive Branch with 3 Petals. Over the eagle’s chest is a Federal Shield without any Stars. There is an open plain field in the top portion, and 5 Vertical Stripes below. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field. Some collectors nickname this, “The Turkey Eagle” because of the Eagle design. Collectors should obtain any specimen that becomes available.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat one-piece molded button with a replaced omega loop shank. No back mark, but mold line present from casting.

Dug by Jim Baldwin at Fort Wilkinson, Milledgeville, Georgia.
The RJ Silverstein Collection.

  

 

1792-98 U.S. Army Wayne’s Legion

Color: A Pewter Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 21mm. (14mm.Remaining) Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 25-A:                  RV 75
Variation: Eagle Facing Right / Upraised Wings / Federal Striped Shield / Thirteen Five Pointed Stars / Short & Stout.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: There are four known die variants in this series. Depending on which die variant, they can have a differences in the length and fullness of the eagle’s neck, and also how many stars are in the field. One die variant the olive branch and arrows switch respective sides. This button depicts an Eagle Facing Right with Upraised Wings. Over the eagle’s chest is a Federal Striped Shield. In the eagle’s left talon is a small bundle of three arrows pointing upwards. In it’s right talon is a short stem olive branch with petals. This die variant is suppose to depict Thirteen Five-pointed Stars surrounding the eagle in the field. The eagle’s neck in this variant appears to be Short and Stout. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field. Because of the Pewter. collectors find these dug buttons hard to obtain intact without edge loss. Un-dug specimens are the extreme rarity.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece molded button with a loop shank. The shank is unfortunately missing. No back mark, but mold line present from casting.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~
Excavated at Fort Adams, Mississippi.

 

 

1792-98 U.S. Army Wayne’s Legion

Color: A Dark Forest Green With Grey Undertones.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm (17mm remaining). Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 25-C:                        RV 75
Variation: Eagle With Upraised Wings / Small Bundle of Three Arrows / Short Stem Olive Branch / 16 Five Point Stars.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, Fair/ A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: There are four known die variants in this series. Depending on which die variant, they can show differences in the length and fullness of the eagle’s neck, and also how many stars are in the field. The button’s pattern depicts an Eagle with Upraised Wings facing right. Over the eagle’s chest is a crude style Federal Striped Shield. In the eagle’s left talon is a Small Bundle of Three Arrows pointing upwards. In the eagle’s right talon is a Short Stem Olive Branch with olives and petals. The die variant depicts Sixteen Five-Point Stars surrounding the eagle in the field. The eagle’s neck appears to be Longer & Fuller. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with no raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat one-piece molded button with a loop shank. The shank is original and intact, but crushed inwards. No back mark or mold line present. Cracks in the pewter are evident.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~

 

1792-98 U.S. Army Wayne’s Legion

Color: A Light Silvery Gray.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 22.37mm. Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 25-C:                             RV 75
Variation: Eagle With Upraised Wings / Small Bundle of Three Arrows / Short Stem Olive Branch / 16 Five Point Stars.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: Here is something pretty neat, George Washington was our Commander and Chief when this button was used. There are four known die variants in this series. Depending on which die variant, they can show differences in the length and fullness of the eagle’s neck, and also how many stars are in the field. The button’s pattern depicts an Eagle with Upraised Wings facing right. Over the eagle’s chest is a crude style Federal Striped Shield. In the eagle’s left talon is a Small Bundle of Three Arrows pointing upwards. In the eagle’s right talon is a Short Stem Olive Branch with olives and petals. This die variant depicts Sixteen Five-Point Stars surrounding the eagle in the field. The eagle’s neck appears to be Longer & Fuller. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with no raised edge border. Collectors find these dug buttons hard to find without edge loss. Buttons with missing shanks appear to be more common.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat one-piece button with a loop shank. The shank is unfortunately missing. No back mark, just a mold line.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~
Dug by J.B. at an encampment site on the Oconee River near Fort Wilkinson, Georgia.

 

 

1792-98 U.S. Army Wayne’s Legion

Color: A Dark Pewter Grey with Greenish Brown Specks.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 13.84mm. Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 25-Cv:                            RV 75
Variation: Eagle With Upraised Wings Facing Right / 5 Five Pointed Stars / Federal Striped Shield / Short & Stout Neck.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: There are three known die variants for the smaller cuff buttons. Collectors often find it difficult to associate the cuff with the proper coat variant because of the limited depiction of stars. Using the size of the eagle’s neck & head along with the position of the few stars directly above the head can be very helpful in determination of the proper variant. This button’s pattern depicts an Eagle with Upraised Wings Facing Right. Over the eagle’s chest is a crude style Federal Striped Shield. In the eagle’s left talon is a small bundle of three arrows pointing upward. In it’s right talon is a short stem olive branch with olives and petals. Since the cuff size is limited in space, the button only depicts 5 Five-Pointed Stars in the field above the eagle’s head. The eagle’s neck in this die variant is Short & Stout. Early military button collectors find Wayne’s Legion pewter buttons hard to obtain intact without edge loss. Un-dug specimens are the extreme rarity.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat one-piece molded button with a loop shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark, but mold line present from casting.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~
Dug in Milledgeville, Georgia by J.B. at an encampment site on the Oconee River near Fort Wilkinson.

* Robert’s Notes: The way to tell which cuff variation (Av,Bv,Cv) is to examine how the stars are depicted above the eagle’s head, and also the thickness and length of the neck.

  

 

1792-98 United States Army Wayne’s Legion

Color: Desert Clay.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm.  Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 25-D: RV 75
Variation: Upraised Wings / 16 Five Pointed Stars / Arrows in Right Talon.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This die variant differs from the other three because the arrows and olive branch switch respective sides. The button depicts a spread Eagle Facing Right with Upraised Wings. In the eagle’s right talon is the small bundle of arrows, and in the eagle’s left claw is Short Olive Branch with Petals. This die variant has Sixteen Five-Pointed Stars surrounding the eagle in the field above. The eagle’s neck in this die variant appears to be Longer & Fuller. There are four die known die variants for this pattern. Depending on which die variant, they can show a difference in the length and fullness of the eagle’s neck, and also how many stars are in the field above. There is no smaller cuff button known to be associated with this die pattern.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a flat molded one-piece button with a loop shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

Robert’s notes: On the 1792-98 Wayne’s Legion Series. I believe there was a lot more molds created or die variants made then the 4 Albert references. I have come across specimens with subtle differences in the eagle’s depicted. Wing spread along with symmetry of spacing vary in specimens known. Could it be possible there were some slightly larger buttons made? Could one of the molds had 17 stars to fill up the empty space? The only meaningful symbolism I know is when 13 Stars were depicted to represent the 13 original colonies or states, or 15 Stars for the number of states when George Washington started his second administration in 1792; which happens to be when these buttons were fabricated!!

Robert, not sure if my button is a 16 or 17 Star. If I count the spacing between the stars then 17. Hard to tell with the pewter disintegrating. Albert doesn’t have a 17 Star count, but then not to say they weren’t made. I believe your assessment is correct, there were probably more variants made not cataloged. -J.B.

 

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~ United States Federal Infantry Patterns from 1798 to 1802 ~

 

1798-1802 U.S. Infantry, 12th Regiment

 

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     In 1798, our second President John Adams was the one responsible for building up the Army and Navy because we were having an undeclared naval war with France. There were several diplomatic and international problems that developed because of the unfair equity trade. This forced John Adam’s to lobby Congress for a larger more equipped national Army. On the diplomatic side, America took a neutral stance in the on-going war between Britain and France. In a legal maneuver, Congress ended-up reneging on it’s war time debt to France. Congress took the dubious ungrateful stance that since France was now controlled by a New Republic and not the King, and the money was only owed to the French Crown and not the New Republic. This infuriated the gentry class of the french New Republic who felt betrayed in helping America gain its independence from Great Britian originally in 1778. As another slap in the face to the French New Republic, Congress was ultimately able to pass a trade deal with Great Britian known as the Jay Treaty, which helped resolve several old contentions between the US and England since the American Revolution.

   In the face of this rejection, and political circumstances, French privateers started seizing American merchant vessels trading with Britain. All these circumstances placed President Adams in a political box between Congress and foreign relations with other nations. He understood America’s political climate its unwillingness to enter into a foreign conflict. He also realized that the Federal Government lacked the resources to make a military commitment of this magnitude. There was also the hard cold fact that the U.S. Army lacked the numbers, discipline, and proper training to even go to war. When he assumed the role as the President, there was only four regiments of infantry, and a very meager operating budget from Congress. At this time, most states believed in small national government and supplied their own militia units for state self preservation. John Adams knew from Washington’s pleas to Congress that these units lacked the proper discipline, experience, and training against a larger and properly trained foreign army. 
     He knew that President Washington had foreseen these foreign problems in his administration, and America needed an Army so it would not be reliant on foreign mercenaries for protection. With some political support, Congress did end-up granting President George Washington a domestic legion. This was the only military strength base that President Adams inherited when he entered office. As with all smart politicians, President Adams used his limited political power to take what initiative he could against a Congress who believed in small government.

     President Adams was able to augment the U.S. Army with an additional 12 Infantry Regiments to make to total of 16 Regiments. Also there wasn’t a large revenue base the federal government could draw from to supply it’s new troops. The Army was dependent on the 15 states paying for everything. So fancy uniforms, and quality metal buttons wasn’t high on the priority list of necessities. This early American Army ran on bare bone necessities and hence the reason for the reasons the soldiers used inexpensive pewter for their uniform buttons. Probably laughable in priority of supplies. So, somewhere in the supply line of accruements the decision was made to look for an alternative to expensive brass or copper buttons produced by established manufacturers of good civilian gilt brass buttons. Congress most likely awarded all contracts out to the cheapest supplier, instead of quality the of construction and workmanship.
     There is some folklore passed down that early infantry regiments were supplied a small quantity of pewter buttons with their uniforms in 1798, but these most probably were left old stock from the four infantry regiments organized under President Washington or possibly Wayne’s Legion Eagle motif pewter buttons. There is records from the War Department which state that in 1800, Robert Martin of Philadelphia made and delivered to the “Purveyor of Public Supplies” a quantity of numbered Pewter buttons for the first 16 Infantry Regiments. These were simple one-piece pewter buttons with an Arabic number in the center, and the country’s name, “United States” circling the border in large capital letters. There was no fancy manufacturer identification back mark on these buttons. We also know through excavation of early encampments, that field molds were comonly used by enlisted soldiers to replace buttons when necessary. Soldiers were easily able to melt down Musket Balls or other non ferries metals to cast 6 or more buttons in scissor like molds. These crude molds we’re easy to use, and easily carried along with them on their long journeys through the western frontier. 

Robert’s Notes: In 1798-1802, the Regimental Infantry buttons were ordered through Robert Martin of Philadelphia came in two sizes, the large coats size 19 to 20mm, and a vest/cuff size of 15 to 16mm.

 

1798-1802 1st Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Flat Grey, & Hints of Red.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm. Coat Button
Albert’s: GI 28 R1:            RV 35
Variation: 1st regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High-Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “1” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is crushed and broken open. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ.Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 2nd Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: Pewter Grey with A Blue Undertone.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm.  Coat Button
Albert’s: GI 28 R2 :             RV 35
Variation: No Star/Raised Rim
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The 2nd Regiment has two known die variants. This button’s pattern depicts a number, “2” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is professionally restored, otherwise straight, and intact. No back mark.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

 

   

1798-1802 2nd Regt. U.S. Infantry (Star Pattern).

Color: A Dark Greenish-Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm.  Coat Button
Albert’s: GI 28 R2C:              RV 35
Variation: Five Point Star/ No Raised Edge Rim.
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This would be the 2nd known die variant. This button’s pattern depicts a number, “2” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED * STATES * ” circling around the edge in capital letters. This pattern has Two Five Pointed Stars in between the country’s name. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a no edge border. This is the only button known in the series of 1798-1802 to use a star as part of the pattern.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is professionally restored, and straight. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

 

1798-1802 2nd Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Charcoal Ash Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 16mm.  Cuff Button
Albert’s: GI 28 R2:             RV 20
Variation: 2nd Regt./Plain Edge.
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Exceptional Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the smaller 2nd Regiment vest button. Similar to the first die variant, this button has a number, “2” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~

 

 

1798-1802 3rd Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Mud Brown .
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20.54mm. Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R3:           RV 20
Variation: 3rd Regt. / Raised Edge.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the larger 3rd Regiment coat button. This button depicts a large Arabic number, “3” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The Shank is unfortunately missing. No back mark. Mold line is barely visible.

The Isabela Collection.~
Excavated near Lake George, New York.

 

1798-1802 3rd Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Charcoal Mud Brown .
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15.89mm. Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R3v:                RV 20
Variation: 3rd Regt. / Raised Edge.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the smaller 3rd Regiment cuff button. This button depicts a small Arabic number, “3” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~
Excavated near Lake George, New York.

 

1798-1802 4th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Ochre of Brown, Green and Red.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 21mm.  Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R4:             RV 35
Variation: 4th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “4” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 4th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Pewter Brown.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15.5mm  Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R4v:             RV 20
Variation: 4th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the smaller 4th Regiment vest button. Similar to the first die variant, this button has a number, “4” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 5th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Ochre of Brown, Green and Red.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm.  Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R5:             RV 35
Variation: 5th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “5” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The Jacob W. Collection.~
Found Along the Ohio river in Sothern Illinois.

 

 

 

1798-1802 5th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Charcoal With Hints of Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15mm.  Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R5v:            RV 20
Variation: 5th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This cuff button’s pattern depicts a large number “5” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 6th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Ochre of Red and Brown Shades.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20.5mm  Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R6:           RV 35
Variation: 6th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “6” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. Mold line is present.

The Isabela Collection.~
Excavated in a Creek Bed near Fort Adams Mississippi.

 

1798-1802 6th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Algae Green with A Charcoal Background.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15.49mm  Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R6v:           RV 35
Variation: 6th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “6” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a plain edge border. Cuff specimens for the 6th Regt. are a rarity.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mold poured one-piece button with a loop shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark or mold line present.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~
Dug at Lake George, New York.

Robert’s Notes: An dug specimen was found of this smaller 15mm. vest size (6th Regt) that was made in Sheffield Silver.

 

1798-1802 7th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Dark Gray with Red Encrustations.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20.5mm.  Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R7:            RV 35
Variation: 7th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “7” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a mould poured one-piece button with a loop shank.. The boss is present, but the shank is missing. No back mark. Mold line is present.

The Isabela Collection.~
Excavated in a Creek Bed near Fort Adams, Mississippi together with several 5th, 6th, & 12th Regt. buttons.

 

1798-1802 7th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Rustic Brown.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15mm. Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R7v:            RV 35
Variation: 7th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Example, Fair Planchet Condition, Fair High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “7” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The boss is present, but the shank is missing. No back mark. No mold line is present.

The Isabela Collection.~
Excavated in a Creek Bed near Fort Adams, Mississippi together with several 5th, 6th, & 12th Regt. buttons.

 

 

1798-1802 8th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An ocher of Oranges & Browns with Pewter Gray Undertones Showing Through.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15.56mm. Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R8v:            RV 35
Variation: 8th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “8” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher numbers are unusually hard to obtain for collectors.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original and intact, but slightly bent.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~
Dug by Mike Bruce in 1997 in a known Encampment in Winchester, Va.

 

United States 9th Infantry Regiment Coat Button 1798-1808

The 9th Infantry Regiment is one on the first units authorized in the United States Army. It first appeared as a result of the Act of 16 July 1798, that authorized twelve additional regiments of infantry, in January 1799. Josiah Carville Hall, of Maryland, was its Lieutenant Colonel. All of the officers were appointed from Maryland, and the regiment was recruited in that State. However it was disbanded 15 June 1800. It appeared again serving in the War of 1812, it was again organized in March 1812, with Simon Learned, of Massachusetts, as colonel. The regiment was raised in Massachusetts, and took part in the War on the northern border, being present at the Battle of Lundy’s Lane, and other actions in that area. Following the war in the reorganization of the army, this regiment was again disbanded.

 

1798-1802 9th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: Steel Blue.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20.14 Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R9: RV 35
Variation: 9th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “9” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher numbers are unusually hard to obtain for collectors.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is unfortunately broken off.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

1792-1802 9th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: Dirt Brown with Pewter Undertones Showing Through.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Gilt Brass.
Size: 20.14 Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R9: RV 50
Variation: 9th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Casting, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “9” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher numbers are unusually hard to obtain for collectors.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original and intact, but slightly bent.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~
Dug by Ken Lembo alongside the Manalapan River, New Jersey.

 

 

1798-1802 10th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Light Orangish-Clay Brown.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm. Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R10:         RV 35
Variation: 10th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “10” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original and intact, but crushed inward. No back mark. Thin mold line is shown.

The Dan Patterson Collection.~
Dan dug in 1998 in an early Military Camp in South Mississippi.

  

 

1798-1802 10th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Silvery Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 18mm remaining. (20mm) Coat Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R10:         RV 35
Variation: 10th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “10” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. Professionally re-shanked and is straight and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is Present.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 12th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Silvery Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15.65mm. Cuff Cize
Albert’s: GI 28 R12v: RV 20
Variation: 12th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “12” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original straight, straight and intact. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 12th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Clay Orange.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15mm.  Cuff Cize
Albert’s: GI 28 R12v: RV 20
Variation: 12th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “12” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. Professionally re-shanked and is straight. No back mark. No mold line is seen. 

 

1798-1802 13th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Olive Gray.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 20mm.  Coat Cize
Albert’s: GI 28 R13:   RV 20
Variation: 12th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, GoodPlanchet Condition, An Strong High Relief Pattern.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “13” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. 

 

 

 

1798-1802 14th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: An Earthy Grey.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15mm.  Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 286 R14:        RV 20
Variation: 14th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “14” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a thin raised edge border. The higher regimental numbers are much harder to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact. No back mark. No mold line can be seen.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.~

 

1798-1802 15th Regt. U.S. Infantry.

Color: A Pewter Brown.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 15mm. Cuff Size
Albert’s: GI 28 R15v: RV 35
Variation: 15th Regt.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button’s pattern depicts a large number “15” in the center, with the country’s name, “UNITED STATES” circling around the edge in capital letters. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with a plain edge border. Scarce button for collectors to find.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a One-Piece Casting for the Reverse Shank. The shank is original and intact, butslightly crushed inward. No back mark. Thin mold line is present.

The Dan Patterson Collection.~
Dan dug in 1998 in an early Military Camp in Central Mississippi.