1902 Theodore Roosevelt The President's Body Guard Enameled Lapel Stud

An enameled political lapel stud of 1902 reading THE PRESIDENT'S BODY GUARD around the outer blue ring with 1902 below, and an elaborate intertwined device at the centre. The letters of that device are given in the political collecting references as I.L.C.N. The brass face is worked in blue, red, white and black enamel. On the reverse the original large button-style stud attachment survives, together with the black textile loop that sits between the face and the rear button. Heritage has recorded this exact design in a specialized collection of Roosevelt enamel studs, catalogued there as The President's Body Guard 1902 I L C N. It is a type that reaches the market very seldom. No Hake or APIC number has been confirmed for it. The enamel is strong across all four colours and much of the gilt finish remains. There is wear, patina and some disturbance to the enamel within the intricate centre, which is where these always go first.