AN AMERICAN SILVER POLICEMAN'S BADGE, NEW YORK, DATED 1849

cast with New York City arms, the back engraved, "Joseph Britton Esq.  - Aldr. 15th Ward 1849."

Edward Sheppard Antiques, November 1987

good condition, crisp
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Joseph Britton (ice dealer) is recorded as Assistant Alderman of the 15th Ward in 1848 and Alderman 1849-52 (Manual of the Corporation of the City of New York, 1869).  The 15th Ward stretched from Houston Street north to Fourteenth Street, and from Sixth Avenue and Hancock Street east to the Bowery.