J R Gaunt & Son established in Birmingham in 1884 by James Richard Gaunt and son Charles Frederick Gaunt (both previously employed by Firmin & Sons); specialised in manufacturing military and uniform buttons; 1899 incorporated as limited company; opened London offices in 1905; after first world war bought up an number of button and insignia makers, including Jennens & Co Ltd of London in 1925; became part of Firmin group in 1991. Large collection of material with Birmingham Museum.