Thread: A chunk of Huntsman Steel

Not a razor, but interesting nonetheless. I recently picked up what I think is a die for stamping buttons. It's got some continental heraldry engraved into it that I don't know anything about. But interestingly, on the side of it is stamped "B. Huntsman", so it definitely came from Benjamin's crucible steel making operation. I'm pretty sure based on the stamp that is is an early 1800s piece.

Fascinating! Do you think it is a military button? Some of the elements seem weirdly familiar: rearing horse, phoenix, galloping horse, stars, griffon, 3 dots... I guess I am asking if you think all these elements fit to indicate a particular use or has someone just combined some familiar elements for design purposes?

Originally Posted by WW243

Fascinating! Do you think it is a military button? Some of the elements seem weirdly familiar: rearing horse, phoenix, galloping horse, stars, griffon, 3 dots... I guess I am asking if you think all these elements fit to indicate a particular use or has someone just combined some familiar elements for design purposes?

I really have no idea. I had thought it was a wax seal at first and didn't realize how deep it was. I haven't had the energy to really look into buttons or heraldry.