Bakelite buttons came out of the creation of plastic in 1909. Bakelite material was used to make antique buttons. It was a very popular jewelry and décor through the 1940’s. It became especially popular during the Great Depression.
The antique Bakelite that collectors love to collect today could be found in the average household back in that era.

During wartime Bakelite was used to outfit the American military. The reason that Bakelite had become obsolete, although extremely cheap when it was made, was due to newer and more efficient refined plastics in the 1950’s. Collectors of antique Bakelite buttons and Bakelite jewelry can ask for as much as $1500 per piece, depending on its rarity and condition. Visit me and have your professional appraisal done on your Bakelite buttons at the: National Button Society Convention