Giving this book a rating almost seems ludicrous. This is the only book currently in print that covers this subject, and boy does it cover the subject. Filled with pictures and diagrams it is absolutely a must for anyone deeply interested in medieval costuming, most notably those in the SCA doing pre-renaissance work.The result of a decade long excavation of a medieval garbage dump on the wharf in London, this 5 book series is packed with information on the items that were part of the daily medieval life. This book in particular outlines the buttons, broaches, belt buckles, needle cases (and lots more) that went into the clothing of the time. And it does it in pictures, diagrams and text that are all far more accessible than most archeological texts. It is a beautiful book and one well worth the $70 US. You won't be disappointed.