Item Description

Authentic Late 19th-Century Spanish Military Uniform Button – Army Administrative Corps (Cuerpo Administrativo del Ejército)

Up for sale is a well-preserved, period-original Spanish military tunic button featuring a sharp, high-relief strike and a highly desirable Madrid backmark.

Front Design & Iconography

The face of the button features a striking multi-rayed starburst/sunburst motif, beautifully surmounted by the Spanish Royal Crown. A clean ribbon banner frames the design, bearing the crisp, raised-letter inscription:

• CUERPO ADMINISTRATIVO DEL EJERCITO

Reverse & Backmark Details

The reverse features a robust, secure brass wire eyelet shank and a distinct, deep-stamped manufacturer backmark:

• JUAN B. FEU / MADRID

• Notes: Juan Bautista Feu was one of Madrid’s premier late-19th-century medalists, die-engravers, and military hardware suppliers, known for high-quality institutional and military contracts during the Bourbon Restoration period.

Historical Context & Dating

This button represents the specialized administrative and logistical branch of the Spanish Army before its modern reorganization.

• Era: Circa 1875–1911.

• Historical Significance: This specific institutional designation (Cuerpo Administrativo) actively managed the supply lines, accounting, and military administration through the late 19th century, including the period of the Spanish-American War (1898). In September 1911, under royal decree, the Administrative and Quartermaster branches were heavily reformed and merged into the unified Cuerpo de Intendencia, making these dedicated "Administrativo" variants an excellent, finite addition to any European militaria or exonumia collection.

Condition Notes

Excellent vintage/antique condition. The face displays a dark, even patina highlighting the recessed areas of the sunburst and lettering, with minor surface wear consistent with age and service. The reverse maintains a strong golden brass tone. The shank is straight, solid, and entirely intact. See high-resolution photos for full forensic detail.

Shipping & Terms

• Measurements: Approx. 22.5 mm (see photos with metric scale for precise verification).

• Shipping Policy: We charge exact carrier rates based on package weight and destination. No additional packaging, handling, or hidden padding fees are ever added.

• Combined Shipping: Available for multiple purchases. Please wait for a combined invoice before paying to ensure the correct exact-rate calculation.

Inventory Code: TM2279