French Napoleonic Military Button

The Grande Armée was the French military force commanded by Napoleon Bonaparte during his reign, particularly known for its role in the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815). At its peak, the Grande Armée numbered over 600,000 soldiers, drawn from various European nations under Napoleon's control or alliances. It was one of the largest and most formidable armies in history, known for its highly disciplined troops, innovative tactics, and rapid movements.

Napoleon's soldiers, known as the Grande Armée, wore uniforms adorned with brass coat buttons that featured the regiment number to which each soldier belonged. The numbers engraved on the buttons identified the specific regiment, such as the 45th Infantry or 7th Hussars, which was crucial for organization on the battlefield and in camp. Each regiment’s uniform buttons were standardized but distinct, showcasing the pride and discipline of the Napoleonic military machine. These buttons were also used as keepsakes, collected by soldiers and later by historians, as they offer a tangible link to one of the most iconic armies in history.

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1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

Your button will look very similar to the one shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact.If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Napoleonic soldier’s buttons were mass-produced during the early 19th century to outfit the vast armies of Napoleon Bonaparte, which at their peak numbered in the millions. These buttons were a crucial part of military uniforms, serving both functional and decorative purposes. Typically made of durable materials like brass, pewter, or copper alloy, they bore regimental insignias, unit numbers, or symbols such as the imperial eagle—key markers of identity within Napoleon’s highly organized military structure. The buttons were produced using molds and presses, allowing for efficient manufacturing at a time when Napoleon's armies required rapid resupply due to their extensive campaigns across Europe.

Owning Napoleonic soldier’s buttons today is possible because of their sheer abundance and durability. During Napoleon's rule, the scale of his military campaigns necessitated the outfitting of millions of soldiers, and buttons were an essential component of every uniform. Lost or discarded during battles, marches, or in camps, many of these buttons were left behind and have since been recovered through archaeological digs, metal detecting, or accidental discoveries on historical battlefields and encampments. The industrial methods of the time ensured that these buttons were not only plentiful but also robust enough to survive harsh conditions for centuries.