A group of two (2) rare 18th-century Loyalist buttons. Items include: 

1. "Long Live the King" gilt brass button. Flat, 1-piece. Lacking loop shank. circa 1789. Diam. 32mm.

Probably an American-made Loyalist button in support of King George III with the gilt circular legend at center reading, "Long Live the King." These were most likely manufactured to celebrate the King's recovery from his long illness, or possibly as a symbol of Loyalist opposition in response to Washington’s inauguration. Very similar to an example instead reading, “Long Live the President” (Albert WI 101A-C), though Albert identifies these with the 1889 Washington Inaugural Centennial. 

Several varieties are known, with this being the rarest and only one other example sold at auction. 

2. "King & Constitution" button. Flat, 1-piece. Loop shank. circa 1784-90. Diam. 22mm

Almost certainly a pattern designed to appeal to British Citizens and Loyalists during the late 18th century. With a small crown at center, encircled by the royal garter with the Order of the Garter’s maxim, "Honi Soit Qui Mal y Pense", with ribands above and below reading "KING / & CONSTITUTION". 

A fine and very rare grouping of American-made loyalist buttons. 

[Civil War, Union, Confederate]  [Relics, Militaria, Accouterment, Equipment, Uniforms]