Metal detecting finds Buttons

METAL DETECTING FINDS - BUTTONS

(Including Button-like Objects, Toggles, Button-and-Loop Fasteners, Cufflinks & Studs)

By Brian Read | Greenlight Publishing (2026)

Buttons have a fascinating history stretching back over 2000 years, but there is a distinct lack of study or information on the topic, especially examples predating the 16th century.

Thanks largely to metal detectorists, archaeologists and mudlarks, a remarkable range of previously unknown or unrecorded metal buttons have been brought to light in recent years.

This book brings together a comprehensive account of the evolution of metal buttons and button-like objects from 2150 BC - AD 1900, each example illustrated with colour photographs and/or detailed line drawings, together with details on manufacture, date and usage. It will prove invaluable to metal detectorists, archaeologists, mudlarks, dress historians and anyone with an interest in early dress fastenings.