Southwestern Native American Style Eagle or Thunderbird Medallion

This is a circular medallion or button featuring a stylized depiction of an eagle or thunderbird, resting against a textured background. The item appears to be crafted from a silver-toned metal, likely sterling silver or nickel silver based on the color and oxidation patterns. The central figure is raised in high relief (repoussé or cast) with smooth, polished surfaces that contrast against the deeply stippled or hammered background. The design elements are characteristic of Southwestern or Pacific Northwest indigenous aesthetics, with graphic, flowing lines representing the wings and tail feathers. The condition exhibits a significant natural patina, with dark oxidation settled into the recessed areas, which enhances the sculptural depth of the piece. Some light surface scratches and minor tarnish consistent with age or frequent handling are visible. The edges are smooth and well-finished, suggesting quality craftsmanship. While no maker's mark is visible on the face, the style is reminiscent of mid-20th-century artisan jewelry. The item is currently attached to a white fabric byproduct or garment by a thin white thread, suggesting it was once used as a decorative button or fastener.

I have examined the digital images of this Southwestern-style medallion, currently repurposed as a button. Based on the visual evidence, the piece displays high-quality repoussé or cast craftsmanship characteristic of mid-20th-century Zuni or Navajo tourist-trade silverwork. The smooth, polished high-relief bird contrasts beautifully with the hand-stippled background, and the natural oxidation in the recesses validates a period patina. The condition is excellent, showing minor surface abrasions consistent with use as a fastener. In the current market, authentic hand-wrought Native American silver buttons from the 1940s-60s are sought after by collectors of both vintage jewelry and 'Fred Harvey Era' memorabilia. While unsigned, the stylistic execution suggests a skilled artisan. However, several limitations exist in this remote assessment. To confirm a higher-end valuation, an in-person inspection is required to test for silver purity (likely .925 sterling) via an acid or XRF test. Without a visible hallmark, value is driven primarily by aesthetic merit and material. Definitive tribal attribution would require provenance documentation or a match to a known smith's specific stippling pattern. If confirmed as nickel silver rather than sterling, the value would trend toward the lower end of the estimate. Furthermore, verifying if the attachment loop is an original part of the casting or a later solder job would further clarify its primary intent as either a button or a converted pendant.