Firmin and Sons is a British company that specializes in producing military insignia, medals, badges, and buttons. The company was founded in 1655 and is still in operation today. Due to the longevity of the company, there are many different types of Firmin and Sons buttons that have been produced over the years. In this article, we will discuss how to identify Firmin and Sons buttons.
History of Firmin and Sons
Firmin and Sons was founded in 1655 by William Firmin. Initially, the company produced metal buttons and livery badges for the royal household. Over time, the company expanded its product line to include badges, medals, and other military insignia. During World War I and World War II, Firmin and Sons produced many different types of buttons for the military.
Types of Firmin and Sons Buttons
There are many different types of Firmin and Sons buttons that have been produced over the years. Some of the most common types of buttons include:
- Brass buttons
- Gold buttons
- Silver buttons
- Enamel buttons
- Uniform buttons
Each type of button has its own unique characteristics that can help with identification.
Identifying Firmin and Sons Buttons
There are several different ways to identify Firmin and Sons buttons. One of the most common methods is to look for the company's name or logo on the button. This can usually be found on the back of the button.
Another way to identify Firmin and Sons buttons is to look at the materials that were used to make the button. Brass buttons are typically gold or silver in color and have a shiny finish. Enamel buttons are made with a layer of enamel on top of the metal.
Uniform buttons are another common type of button that Firmin and Sons produces. These buttons are often made with a specific design that is unique to a particular branch of the military.
Collecting Firmin and Sons Buttons
Collecting Firmin and Sons buttons can be a fun and rewarding hobby. There are many different types of buttons to collect, and each one has its own unique history and story to tell. Some collectors focus on collecting buttons from a specific time period, such as World War I or World War II. Others collect buttons from a specific branch of the military, such as the Navy or the Army.
When collecting Firmin and Sons buttons, it is important to know what to look for in terms of authenticity. There are many replica buttons on the market that can be mistaken for the real thing. Look for buttons that have the company's name or logo on the back and are made with high-quality materials.
Conclusion
Firmin and Sons has a long and rich history of producing military insignia, medals, badges, and buttons. There are many different types of Firmin and Sons buttons that have been produced over the years, each with its own unique characteristics. By knowing how to identify Firmin and Sons buttons, collectors can build a valuable and interesting collection.
