1904 Theodore Roosevelt Roosevelt Republicanism Enameled Lapel Stud

An enameled campaign lapel stud carrying the slogan ROOSEVELT REPUBLICANISM around a large intertwined RR. The brass face is worked in blue and white enamel, ROOSEVELT across the top and REPUBLICANISM around the lower border, with the monogram in the white centre. The original button-style stud attachment is on the reverse. The phrase belongs to the Roosevelt campaign of 1904 and to the strand of Republican politics that organized itself around him personally rather than around the party machine. Other Roosevelt enamel studs are recorded, but this design surfaces infrequently. The enamel is strong and the brass has taken a pleasing patina; there are minor surface marks and small enamel flaws visible close up.