Revolutionary War French Navy Uniform Button, recovered at Yorktown (ON HOLD,M)

Being offered is a rare French Revolutionary War Navy button, measuring 18.4mm. The brass face of the button has the large anchor with the twisted rope wrapped around it. The back on this one is made with the French "Turret" style shank. This button was recovered many years ago at Yorktown, Virginia.

During the Revolutionary War, French forces had an indirect, strategic presence in the New York City area, though the British occupied the city itself. French troops under Comte de Rochambeau marched across the Hudson River valley and converged with American forces in New York, conducting reconnaissance on the British fortifications in July 1781. However, they ultimately shifted their focus to Virginia and joined with the French Navy under Comte de Grasse to achieve victory at the Battle of Yorktown, not directly fighting within New York City.

This button is the style that is illustrated on page #167 of Don Troiani’s button book on uniform buttons of the American Revolution. This version is a variation similar to the one listed as figure FCN.d. with the back on this one being made with the French "Turret" style shank. The button is in very nice condition – just as found and all original. This is a rare button to add to any Revolutionary War collection.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been difficult to find, and I am fortunate to have quite a few pieces in stock. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price. I am already seeing a substantial increase in purchases.