18L Carded Lady Washington Four Small Pearl Shank Buttons 13/32"

Vintage 1950s (late 1940s–early 1960s) genuine mother-of-pearl shank buttons produced by the American Pearl Button Company of Washington, Iowa, under their popular Lady Washington brand. These buttons are made from freshwater pearl harvested from Mississippi River mussel shells and represent classic mid-century American craftsmanship.

The American Pearl Button Company operated from 1908 to 1965 and was part of the thriving US freshwater pearl button industry centered in Iowa towns such as Washington and Muscatine. This industry dominated domestic button production from the late 1800s through the 1940s and early 1950s, particularly during and after World War II when imports, including Japanese buttons, were limited by war and trade restrictions. The company reached peak employment around 1948 with approximately 240 workers, placing these buttons firmly in the postwar production era, with the 1950s being the best fit.

This set retains its original carded packaging, featuring the classic 10¢ price, “GUARANTEED WASHABLE” designation, and well-known slogans such as “Nature born them to last… We fashion them to flatter,” all hallmarks of mid-century American-made buttons. The flat-top buttons have a smooth, luminous surface with the soft iridescence unique to real nacre, along with traditional shank backs.

Size is approximately 18 lignes, about 10.5 mm (roughly 13/32 inch). New old stock condition with unused buttons showing excellent luster; the card displays light age wear consistent with its history.

A wonderful piece of American industrial and fashion history, appealing to collectors, vintage sewing enthusiasts, and anyone seeking authentic mid-century materials made in the USA.

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