Reproduction Sleeve Buttons (Cufflinks)

Reproduction sleeve buttons (cufflinks). Carefully crafted by Ward Oles. Each design is consistent with originals seen in period portraiture and/or archeological finds. The original of the Tallio design can be seen in the collections of Colonial Williamsburg, accession #2007-103.

Choice of design - Tallio, c.1770, Doves, 1773-1782,  or John Wilkes “No. 45” c.1770.

"No. 45" is a reference to the April 23, 1763 issue of John Wilkes' publication, The North Briton, in which he fiercely criticized King George III and the British government. This act of "seditious libel" led to his arrest and made him a symbol of liberty, freedom of speech, and resistance against tyranny in both Britain and the American colonies.

"Wilkes, Liberty, and Number 45". Article from Colonial Williamsburg. Additional information can be found here, at the UK's National Archives blog.