@ponderingthepast: Years ago, I uncovered what many consider to be the holy grail of colonial relic hunting, a 1789 George Washington Inaugural button. I figured since the United States just celebrated its 250th birthday, it was time to share the story of this special button that ties directly back to our first President. In 1789, George Washington was elected president unanimously by electors from the ten states who ratified the constitution. His reputation as being the commander-in-chief during the Revolution and his involvement in the Constitutional Convention made him the obvious choice as to who could lead the newly-born United States. After receiving the news at his Mount Vernon home that he officially won, he started making his way to New York City, where he would officially be inaugurated. During his travels, he was greeted with crowds celebrating his victory in the various towns and cities he stopped in and passed through. He finally made it to Federal Hall in New York, where he was met with thousands of onlookers gleefully cheering. This is where he took oath of office under the new constitution, and was officially sworn in as the first president of the United States. At some point around this time, artisans and skilled craftsmen began making big brass buttons commemorating George Washington’s inauguration. These weren’t made for the ordinary person, and weren’t mass-manufactured; these were likely privately purchased at a political event, or perhaps even at the 1789 Inauguration itself. It had a loop on the back so it could be sewn on a coat, showing support for the president. This was essentially the first political campaign button or pin made in the United States, making it an unparalleled piece of Americana. This particular button has a giant “GW” monogram in the center in a small, recessed field with stippling. Another thin recessed field half encircles the top portion, with the words “Long Live The President” inside. That phrase is said to have been uttered by Robert R. Livingston, who administered the oath of office when Washington was inaugurated. A simple message, yet meaningful to those who used to be ruled under the tyrannical British crown. I found this with my good friend Sam at the site of a late-18th century farm house, now a modern farm. Even though we were finding other relics from the late-1700s, this find was completely unexpected and blew me away. I’m so grateful to have found such a significant piece of history that’s directly linked to our countries’ beginnings! #metaldetecting #georgewashington #inaugural #button #History

Isaac Pasette

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Region: US

Tuesday 07 July 2026 19:27:44 GMT