Material: Black horn
Size: 17 mm
Description: This military uniform fastener is crafted from a matte black horn. The circular button features a finely lined, horizontally hatched background that provides high contrast for the raised central insignia. The design showcases a traditional strung bugle or powder horn, topped by a highly detailed King's (Tudor) Crown. This specific coloration and symbolic combination was designated explicitly for rifle and light infantry units, ensuring that no reflective metal surfaces would compromise a soldier's camouflage in the field. The reverse side remains completely unmarked and is securely fitted with a single, sturdy brass wire attachment loop.
Circa: 1890–1918
Notes:
Unlike regular line infantry regiments that wore polished brass, the British Light Infantry and Rifle Regiments, such as the King's Royal Rifle Corps or the Rifle Brigade, intentionally utilized blackened horn or dark composite buttons to maintain strict field discipline. This practice dates back to the Peninsular War, where these elite units pioneered skirmishing tactics and required stealth over parade-ground flashiness.