Original pair of 18th century sleeve links, ca. 1725 – 1755

Being offered are 18^th century sleeve links [cuff links] measuring 13mm and having the wire attachments. They are made of brass and have a star motif, which was very popular in the 1700s.

In the 18th century, sleeve links (also called sleeve buttons) were an early form of cufflinks made of two small matching buttons joined together by a short wire loop or chain to fasten narrow shirt cuffs or collar.

In this time period, sleeve links were worn by many officers, members of royalty and the nobility, and with time their popularity grew. They were also valued as gifts for gentlemen and served as a kind of keepsake, but over time became an indispensable accessory for shirt sleeves and collars.  Unlike the buttons of the early years, the materials used were diverse, and the designs became more sophisticated, using gemstones and precious metals.

In the Colonial Williamsburg Museum in Virginia, they have several of these sleeve buttons in their collection (see pictures). They come in the glass top display case pictured.