Silver-Plated Compression Snap Fastener or Button
Fastener (Functional Hardware) · Unattributed mass-market manufacturer
Pattern: Generic concentric circle industrial design
Type
Fastener (Functional Hardware)
Maker
Unattributed mass-market manufacturer
Material
Silver plating over a base metal (likely brass or steel); shows yellowing/brassiness in recessed areas
Dimensions
Approximately 10-15mm in diameter; weighs less than 2 grams
Description
A utilitarian silver-plated snap fastener used for apparel or soft goods, featuring a circular motif with a central dome for engagement.
Key Features
Concentric ring stamping and central protrusion for mechanical snap engagement
Material & Composition
Silver plating over a base metal (likely brass or steel); shows yellowing/brassiness in recessed areas
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver-tone finish with concentric stamped rings; no ornate engraving
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; typical of small utilitarian silver-plated hardware
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck; multi-part assembly for snap function
Functional Features
Interlocking compression mechanism for securing fabric or leather
Handle & Grip Details
Concave textured surface for finger grip during fastening
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; uniform machine stamping with minor alignment variations in plating thickness in the recesses
Authentication Indicators
Lack of sterling hallmarks and the presence of brassy undertones indicate a plated base metal
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely East Asia (China or Taiwan) based on common hardware supply chains
Era & Period
Modern Industrial (late 20th century to present)
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from ornate silver buttons to functional, mass-produced industrial fasteners
Condition Notes
Good; minor surface wear and oxidation (tarnish) visible in the grooves where plating is thin
Value Estimate
Negligible market value; typically sold in bulk as hardware components ($0.10 - $0.50 per unit)
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft cloth; avoid harsh silver dips which may strip the thin plating from the base metal
Similar Pieces
Standard metal snaps, shank buttons, or rivet-style fasteners
Interesting Facts
Snap fasteners were first patented in the late 19th century but became ubiquitous with mass-market denim and workwear