The Big Book of Buttons: The Encyclopedia of Button History, Design, and Identification - Second Edition By Elizabeth Hughes and Marion Lester

The Big Book of Buttons is now even bigger. Now in two volumes with over 1100 pages, it contains a wealth of information on button history, design, and classification. More than 200 new plates and illustrations have been added to this already encyclopedic work that reflects not only of the world's favorite collecting hobbies, but also presents a rich vein of world history. Button collecting has evolved steadily since the National Button Society was founded in 1938 and although it was originally considered just an inexpensive depression-era distraction it has grown to become highly competitive in local, regional, and national competitions. The research it has engendered is as thorough as that of an academic journal and is subject to the constant review of its peers. Yet it still retains its appeal t attract beginners. As with some other collection hobbies, buttons are a common part of the human experience and heritage. As the Introduction will show, buttons can help us trace our ancesto