Bidspirit auction | 19th-C. GAR & Military Relic

19th-C. GAR & Military Relic Group - This fascinating late 19th-century militaria collection features a diverse grouping of historical mementoes and soldier's souvenirs, highlighted by a collection of fifteen Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) and military uniform buttons manufactured by the Waterbury Button Co. alongside a 24.5-inch gilt metal decorative belt-slide chain which functions similarly to a vintage sword or dagger hanger accessory. The button group comprises six large GAR coat buttons measuring 1-7/8 inches in diameter bearing the classic script design, smaller GAR vest buttons measuring 5/8 inch, and a small 5/8-inch U.S. Navy uniform button with ”Fine Quality” stamped on the back. Also included in the lot are a turned wooden display piece adorned with five lead bullets, an antique brass-mounted powder flask with a significant portion missing from the reverse, a blue and red embroidered military specialty patch, a pair of brass 90th field artillery collar insignia with crossed cannons, a small cut metal piece (sword blade fragment?) stamped ”GENERAL ENGLAND,” and a small metal insignia backing piece. The collection displays varying states of age and wear typical of field-recovered and veteran-saved relics, featuring oxidation and verdigris on the brass elements, structural loss and missing body material on the powder flask, moth-eating and fraying on the textile patch, surface scratches and scuffs on the metal components, and general patina across the button lot. H 24.5”, W 5”, D 3” Please see photos for condition.