Beginning Bakelite

Bakelite buttons can be tricky to identify, and since they require special cleaning, it's important to make sure that it's Bakelite. There are simple tests to help you identify them.

Beginning Appraisal

There are several options for the collector or hobbyist who is looking for a good source well versed in appraising antique buttons. Whether you are looking at appraising antique buttons made of brass, metal, enamel, bakelite, celluloid, leather, champleve, ivory or wood, you must already have a pretty good sense that the buttons have value, otherwise you wouldn’t be considering appraisal.

You might start the process of appraising antique buttons by doing a little preliminary research yourself. Go for a visit to your local library or bookstore and check out some of the books or periodicals they might have specific to antique buttons or appraising antique buttons. Even books dedicated to defining and cataloguing antique buttons may include rough price guides which can give you a starting point to recognizing the market value of your antique buttons.

Remember, though, that these books and guides are only as accurate as the year in which they were published. You should also remember that the value of your antique buttons is dependent on their condition and rarity as well. You may also find some good resources about appraising antique buttons online by checking out hobbyist websites, collectors’ websites and online auction sites such as eBay. If you can find the same or similar item as you have listed on an auction site, it will give you an idea of what the market is willing to pay. This can go a long way in establishing a starting point for your expectations as far as the results of appraising antique buttons in your collection is concerned.