It's not often I'm stumped by a button, but this one eludes me. It is definitely pre-1865...but...buttonists and Civil War collectors have been puzzled by this one for years. It came to me in a bag of Civil War buttons (all war dated or earlier) and if it's not military, it's the only button in the lot that wasn't. I'm frankly not even sure if this is a letter "M" or some sort of design. A "W" perhaps? Yipes. I don't like mysteries but there you have it.

 

I can say that in 37 years of collecting and 17 years of dealing, this is the very first time I have handled this button or seen it for sale. I'm sure others are out there -- in fact, I have another one that came in the same group. Same backmark, same size.

 

My best guess is that it is either tied to some obscure militia or perhaps a school. Other possibilities are fraternal organizations or perhaps a government (state?) agency.

 

Here's your chance to make history. This would be a challenging research project. If you figure it out and publish, we'll toast you and offer you the hearty handshake.

 

 

(Now if someone knows what this is for certain, let me know too! I'll send you a bullet or something. )  Seriously - It's entirely possible that we've figured out what unit or organization this button is associated with since I last injquired. It's been awhile!