aka "left-bids" or "pre-bids"
- Absentee bids let you place your maximum bid on an item before the live auction begins. During the live show, we’ll continue bidding on your behalf up to your max bid — just like leaving a bid with a traditional auctioneer.
- When you place an absentee bid, you’ll choose a bid strategy. Your chosen strategy determines how the current bid will be set at the time your bid is placed. Your maximum bid always remains confidential.
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The available strategies are:
- 🐢 Slow & Steady — starts your bid low and lets others chase you.
- ⚡💥 Power Bid — starts at about half your max to show intent without revealing your top number.
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- The current bid shown on each lot reflects all confirmed absentee bids and updates automatically as new bids come in.
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For our full absentee bid policy, please click here.
How bidding works
- All items have a minimum bid of $1.00.
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Your absentee bid for Lot 158 - Grouping Of 16 Antique And Vintage Buttonhooks In Various Materials Including Sterling Silver, Bone, Celluloid, And Mother-Of-Pearl was successfully submitted—thank you for bidding with us!
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For our full absentee bid policy, please review the Auction Rules.
Lot 158 - Grouping Of 16 Antique And Vintage Buttonhooks In Various Materials Including Sterling Silver, Bone, Celluloid, And Mother-Of-Pearl
Lot 158 - Grouping Of 16 Antique And Vintage Buttonhooks In Various Materials Including Sterling Silver, Bone, Celluloid, And Mother-Of-Pearl
Lot 158 - Grouping Of 16 Antique And Vintage Buttonhooks In Various Materials Including Sterling Silver, Bone, Celluloid, And Mother-Of-Pearl
This collection includes 16 buttonhooks spanning the late 19th through mid-20th century, representing various quality levels and styles. Materials include at least one marked sterling silver example with ornate pierced decoration, silver-plated examples, and buttonhooks with bone, celluloid, or early plastic handles in cream tones. Several display advertising text or other commercial markings. The grouping also includes one shoe horn and features varied designs from simple utilitarian forms to decorative examples with mother-of-pearl and ornately engraved handles. Buttonhooks were essential accessories during the Victorian and Edwardian eras for fastening high-button shoes and boots. The collection shows honest wear including tarnish, oxidation, and surface aging consistent with use and age. Assorted sizes from 3-3/4" L to 5-1/2" L.
Auction Date: 01/22/2026
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