History of Lapel Pins
Historically, lapel pins have been associated with the military and the world of politics.
- The first appearance of lapel pins dates back to the Civil War era, when they were used by both sides to identify different units.
- During the first World War, they were awarded as symbols of merit and distinguished service, often adding a ribbon or dangling ornament.
- The wearing of lapel pins eventually spread to civil service entities, such as police and fire departments, and then eventually to government agencies, notably the CIA and FBI.
These type of military and other service pins are often handed down in families, becoming meaningful heirlooms. Due to their historical significance, they have also become much sought-after collectibles.
The trend of lapel pins moving from military and government agencies to political and other affiliations was not such a long jump, and lapel pins went on to be popularized by political and social groups.
- A very meaningful recent example is the proliferation of the American flag lapel pins that became popular right after 9/11. These pins were not only popular in the United States, but worldwide, as a symbol of compassion and solidarity with the American people in their time of sorrow.
- A notable historical example of this is the widely popular Mao Tse Tung pins, which became powerful symbols of the Communist party in China in the 1960s and 1970s.
In the present day, lapel pins are widely worn, traded, and collected, and not only as political, military, or social symbols. By tradition a distinctly American hobby, lapel pin collecting has become a world-wide phenomenon.
Pins are now worn to show loyalty to a favorite band or sports team, celebrate a beloved character, or can be simply worn as a decorative article.
Uses for Lapel Pins
Over the last centurty, we have seen the metamorphosis of lapel pins from a means of identifying group members to their use as cultural symbols. Pins are very versatile and have a wide variety of applications.
- Though most commonly worn on the lapels of jackets, they can adorn any type of material: lanyards, hats, and pocketbooks are other popular options. In fact, you can usually spot a collector by the amount of pins attached to their hats or jackets.
- Cork boards are a very common and easy means of displaying a permanent collection of lapel pins.
For everyday usage, lapel pins are a relatively inexpensive, but classic way of conferring a sense of belonging to group members. It is an honor for new initiates into a society such as a fraternity or sorority to become “pinned.” Businesses use them quite often to honor top performers in their company.
Here are some other examples of lapel pins in business, social, and entertainment environments:
- Using lapel pins for events such as conventions can have many benefits. Lapel pins can be given to convention attendees as a means of identification while at the convention, and as a keepsake after. It is typical to see a veteran conventioneer wearing rows of pins, representing their years of attendance, on their ID tags. They can be handed out at conventions as a means of advertising to prospective customers or clients, or as “thank you” tokens for loyal customers. Pins are also given at conventions to signify special achievements at awards dinners or luncheons.
- Charitable organizations have long used lapel pins as fund-raising tools and symbols of their organization, and their donors proudly wear them to show their commitment to the cause. Some of these, such as the previously mentioned red or pink ribbons, become so linked to the cause that they are symbolic of that they are nearly universally recognized. These ribbon symbols have even developed an electronic version, which is a popular profile badge on some social networks.
- The use of lapel pins in sports and entertainment has a wide range of implications as well. Notable examples of this are the special pins which are designed for each Olympic Games. Normally these pins are limited additions, available only for the duration of the event, and are highly desired as collectibles. In fact, many major sports teams and sporting events have their own pin designs, and their fans proudly wear these pins to show their loyalty and dedication.
- Theme parks, restaurants, festivals, arts enterprises, and musical groups all benefit from the creation and sale of lapel pins to celebrate their attractions and to promote fan or customer loyalty and unity. Hard Rock Cafe and Disney are very notable examples.
Lapel Pin Manufacturing
Whatever type of pin you are having made for your organization, the manufacturing process is fairly streamlined and standardized across the board. You will start with a design, either of your own creation or one that the pin manufacturer has created for you. From there, you will decide what type of materials and finish will be applied. There are several steps to the manufacturing process, and the complexity of the process depends on the complexity of the finished product.
In general, once your design is finalized, it is inked and colored, and then transferred to a sheet which is marked with the specifications of size and features. A mold is then made and cut to form the outline of the pin. This is used to stamp the individual pins into a sheet of metal, usually copper or brass. These are the preferred metals for lapel pins because they are softer and more impressionable. It is especially good for a design which has a lot of detail. The copper or brass is then plated with a more durable metal after the final stage. This can be as basic as nickel or as elaborate and pricey as gold, silver, or platinum.
After all of the pins in the run have been stamped out, including the back stamp, if specified, the required backing is applied to each pin. The pins are then plated and polished, and the coloring process can begin.
Here is a run down of the different types of materials used in the final filling and coloring process. Keep in mind that the more pins you order, the lower the your price per pin will be.
Common Materials for Lapel Pins
Cloisonne
This is a technique perfected by the Chinese. After the pin has been cut, the shape of the design is impressed into the pin, leaving raised outlines of the separate areas of color. A powdered color mixture, similar to sand or ground glass, is then added to the design and baked in high heat, color by color. This keeps the colors separate so that they retain their brilliancy. This is the most high-quality and attractive finish, and many embellishments such as glitter and jewels can be added.
Soft enamel
This method is similar to cloisonne. The beginning steps are the same, but the coloring is done by injecting soft enamel in your choice of colors into the recessed areas of the stamped design. The piece is then baked to set the colors. The look is very similar to cloisonne, but the process is less expensive, and it is one of the most common finishes.
Die struck
A die-struck lapel pin is created by first creating an image of your design on a die. The outline shape of your pin is cut out of sheets of brass or copper, and then the die stamps your design into each of the pins. After this die stamping, the piece is plated with your choice of plating material and polished. This method gives your pin the look of an engraving.
Etched enamel
In etched enamel, the image is etched into the surface of the pin using an acid solution, and then the image is hand-painted and fired, then polished.
Off-set printed
This is the best method for very complex or detailed artwork and for photographic images. The design is created and transferred to the lapel pin using a printing method similar to that used in magazine printing. This process allows for an unlimited number of colors.
Screen printed
This is a process of applying blocks of color, one at a time, using a silk- screening method.. This is the same process which is used to create images on T-shirts.
After the coloring has been added, the pins are cleaned and polished. In the final stage, a coating of clear epoxy resin is applied in order to protect the finish.
Options and Features for Lapel Pins
Once you have chosen a design and material, you will have to decide what type of attachment you want, and any special features, such as lighting or 3D effects. If you want the pins to be back stamped, you will need to supply this information as well. Some other features you may want to consider are:
Dangles
These are little charm-like objects that hangs from a small hoop on the bottom of the pin. They can be tiny figures, bells, or stones and jewels.
Bobbles
This is the opposite of a dangler. The charm is affixed to the top of the pin with a spring, so that it “bobbles” around.
3D effects
These are usually created by bolting a pin on top of the base pin to give it a 3-dimensional look.
Flocking
This is a process that creates a fuzzy, textured area on surface of the pin.
Sliders
These are pins that have a movable piece attached at the bottom of the pin so that the attached piece can slide back and forth.
Spinners
Spinners are pins that have a movable piece attached by a bolt or screw through the center of the attached piece that allows the attachment to be spun like a pinwheel.
LED Lighting
An LED lapel pin is one that has an area that lights up, displaying a digital message of your choice. The light is powered by a small battery attached to the back of the pin, usually just above or below the backside attachment. The batteries are not replaceable, so the feature will no longer work once the battery has run down.
Backside Attachment Options for Lapel Pins
The next most important step in creating your pin is to decide on a backside attachment. The attachment is usually soldered on, but can be glued into place. As with other features, your choice will affect the final cost per pin. Here are the most popular choices for pin attachment.
Butterfly clutch
This is the most typical way of attaching a lapel pin. Since it originated with the military, it is sometimes called a military clutch. It is a small round with a hole in the middle, and a “wing” on each side. When the “wings” are squeezed together, it releases a catch inside that allows it to be removed from the prong on the pin.
Jewelry clutch
This is a simple design that looks similar to the butterfly clutch. A mechanism inside catches on the prong attachment when it is pushed into place.
Safety clasp
This attachment looks like a safety pin, and works in the same manner.
Magnetic clasp
This is a clasp that has a magnet attached. It holds the pin in place by attraction to another magnet that is affixed to the back of the pin. It is a good option if you do not want to damage a garment by putting pinholes in it.
Nut and screw
This is a means of attaching a lapel pin by means of applying a small threaded bolt to a small screw that is attached to the back of the pin.
Lapel Pin Markings
Markings on the back of lapel pins usually will simply state the organization for which the pin was created. Special markings might include a dedication, the date the pin was made, or if the pin is a special or limited edition, the edition number or number of items in that release. Another back stamp you might encounter is AP. This stands for an “Artists Proof,” which is a very small initial test run of a lapel pin, usually limited to about 20 pins. Some collectors prize these AP pins, as there are relatively few of them created before any changes are made and the pin goes into mass production.
Lapel Pin Ordering Guide
Most lapel pin manufacturers and suppliers have web sites which list their services and what is included in the price. Many will offer free art design and molding as an added bonus. Here are a few hints about what information you should have ready before you inquire about a quote, and some suggestions about art work.
Preparing to Get a Quote
Before you contact a manufacturer, you should have a few things settled in preparation for placing your order. Try to have a general idea of what you want. If you do not have a design, have a general idea of what you would like. Know how many pins you will need for the purpose of your organization. Keep in mind the purpose of the pin. Is it for employee recognition, a membership drive, a charity, or a one-time, special purchase? Know what your budget requirements will allow, and stick within that range. After you have consulted with a couple of manufacturers and have decided on one that you feel comfortable with, they will work with you to finalize your design, materials, colors, back attachment, and order size.
Best Art Designs and Detailing Options
The best art design for your lapel pins is one which keeps it simple and gets your message or idea across to your target market at the same time. A bold design works best, since the coloring methods will turn out better if there is not too much detail, such as small or narrow areas of color. If it is a single pin, or a small run for a special project, you can go big dollar with the quality of plating metal, and even add crystals or jewels. If you are ordering in bulk for a convention or volunteer organization, you can keep it very basic.
If you have the time and an artistic inclination, you can design the pin yourself, or you can meet with your board to come up with a design that is agreeable to all. Some companies will even hold contests among employees and their families or customers and the general public to help find a new logo or art design. If you do not have a design in mind, most lapel pin manufacturers have artists on staff who will work with you to come up with a unique design that suits your company’s budget and specifications.
Pricing Information
Pricing depends on the number of pins you need to have manufactured, the materials and finish you require, and any special details that are to be added to the pin. The more features you add in the way of lighting, jewels, dangles, and elaborate details, the higher your cost per pin. For a basic, 4 color cloisonne pin with a standard butterfly clasp, you can expect to pay anywhere from $0.43 per pin for a small 3/4”pin in a run of 10,000 pins up to $3.67 per pin for a larger 2” pin in a run of 100 pins. Any additional features, such as magnetic clasps, or more colors will add to the price, usually starting at about $0.20 per pin and up
Many manufacturers will give you a free quote, so don’t be afraid to check around and find the best one for your company or organization’s budget and needs.
Collecting and Trading Lapel Pins
Aside from their functional and symbolic value, the nature of most lapel pins makes them highly prized as collectibles. Social events and conventions are now organized around the purchase and trading of themed lapel pins. Most trading is done face-to-face, but there are entire websites and message boards dedicated to this hobby as well. Some of the most popular collectible pins are:
Olympic Games lapel pins
The most collected of these are from specific host cities, mascots, commemorative, and sponsor pins
Popular cartoon characters for lapel pins
Peanuts characters, Disney characters, and Betty Boop are among the most popular of these.
Military lapel pins
Veterans and military enthusiasts collect pins from each of the wars and different branches of the military. Also very much sought-after are military aircraft and honorary pins.
Product lapel pins
Big names, such as McDonald’s and Coca Cola, motorcycles, alcohol and tobacco brands, and sports teams all have their place in many valued collections.
Flag lapel pins
These collections include state flags, country flags, and special flags, which may feature slogans or symbols such as peace signs.
A Whole New World of Trading
Special mention must be made of two corporations who have taken the collection and trading of lapel pins to a new level: The Disney Corporation and Hard Rock Cafe.
Disney Lapel Pins
The Disney corporation has created a whole new world of pin collecting, with a very detailed protocol spelling out the specifics of how, when, and where pins may be traded. There is an official pin trading handbook which lays out the methods, prohibitions, and etiquette of Disney lapel pin trading. There is even a list of trading terms specific to Disney pin trading. This activity was a popular but casual hobby up until the Disney Millennium celebration. Since that time, they have created special annual events at many of their theme parks which are centered around this activity. At these events fans may interact and trade with each other and the Disney cast members. The only Disney theme park where pin trading is prohibited is the Tokyo Disney Resort, but pins may be purchased there.
There are over 60,000 officially sanctioned Disney lapel pins currently available, and many collectors concentrate on certain themes, such as characters or attractions. The corporation brings out new, limited-addition pin collections yearly as well, so there are always fresh items to add to yours. The new collections are unveiled at an event each September. In addition to lapel pins, Disney also has their own line of pin-related paraphernalia for the display of Disney lapel pins. The most common of these are the lanyards, which cast members and traders alike use for the display and trading of their pin collection. There are also special “Lanyard Collection” pins, that are back-stamped with “Hidden Mickeys,” which are unique to each collection. Non limited-edition pins have the Disney copyright stamped on the back. Limited-editions are stamped with the copyright, limited edition, and edition number. The Disney pins have an original sales price ranging from $6.95 – $75.00, but hard to find and limited-edition pins can appreciate drastically on the secondary collectors’ market. The series which is generally considered the rarest are the “Piece of History” pins. These have come out every few years since 2005, and include a tiny piece of a Disney attraction that they are associated with. The rarest of these is the “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” pin from the first series.
Hard Rock Cafe Lapel Pins
Hard Rock Cafe is another corporation that has made pin trading into an entity unto itself. Until 2001, Hard Rock Cafe pin collectors, or “Pinatics,” were of two separate entities: the Hard Rock Cafe Pin Society and the Hard Rock Cafe Pin Collectors. In March of that year, the two groups merged to become, officially, the Hard Rock Cafe Pin Collectors’ Club, complete with officers, bylaws, and their own website. There is also a monthly online newsletter called “PinTales,” that keeps collectors aware of news and upcoming events. Although anybody can buy or trade Hard Rock Cafe pins (there is a complete catalog on their website featuring over 35,000 pins) Club members receive special perks. Some of these perks include a membership pin upon joining, a membership card that gives you an automatic discount at any Hard Rock Cafe franchise or resort, special edition pins, and milestone pins upon proof of visit to different Cafe locations around the world. The goal is to earn the complete set of milestone pins for a unique visit to each of their 175 locations, beginning with your 10th visit. Upon your 100th visit, your pin is framed and you may join the elite Century Club. The 150th and 175th visit milestone pins are personalized. Club membership is $29.95 annually, and the Hard Rock Cafe pins range in price from $6.50 and up.
Aside from the Pin Club members’ pins, the most collectible Hard Rock Cafe lapel pins are the guitar pins and waitress pins. There are also commemorative pins issued when a new Cafe opens, for each holiday, and for special sporting events, like the Kentucky Derby. Some of the most difficult pins to get are the staff pins.
In edition to officially sanctioned pin trading events, there is also a thriving online trading and collecting community. As with any collectible, know the markings and back-stamps which make them official Hard Rock pins, and beware of fakes. Hard Rock Cafe official pins are stamped “Hard Rock Cafe” on the back, and limited edition pins also have a stamp that says “limited edition” and the edition number.
Why Do People Collect Lapel Pins?
People form collections for many reason. Some collect due to a love of certain objects. Others people become collectors because certain objects or symbols have a personal meaning to them, such as military memorabilia. Some people begin collections as a form of investment due to the high rate of appreciation of some collectibles. Collecting, and the activities that go along with it, are also a fun way to socialize and meet new people. Lapel pins are a great collectors’ hobby for several reasons:
- Lapel pins are attractive and functional.
- There is a sentimental attachment behind the symbolism of many lapel pins.
- There is such a variety of pins that collection opportunities are nearly limitless.
- A lapel pin collection is very portable and easy to maintain.
- A collection of pins is a great way to round out a collection of other items, such as sports memorabilia.
Tips On Collecting and Trading Lapel Pins
It is very easy to begin a lapel pin collection. For the novice, here are some helpful tips on how to begin your collection and what you need to know when purchasing or trading pins to add to your collection.
Starting a Collection of Lapel Pins
- Start small, and specialize. There are literally hundreds of thousands of lapel pin designs. Start by collecting pins that reflect a hobby or interest that you have, such as sports or art. Another good beginning is to start with pins you or a family member already have, and build on that. The value of this method of starting a collection is a sentimental one, especially if there is a family history or story behind the pin. In such a case, write down the story or history and display it on a card along with the pin to which the story refers.
- A good collection should have a little variety to it. Seek unusual pins, and pins that have special features like LED lighting, dangles, spinners.
- Learn everything you can about the specific kind of pin you are collecting. You can then collect with confidence.
- Have a suitable means of storing and displaying your collection. Some of the options for display are binders, cork boards, or framed pieces of fabric or cardboard. Most craft and hobby stores will have anything you need to showcase your pin collection.
- Take good care of your collection. Many lapel pins are mini works of art, and a collection that is well maintained can increase in value. You can clean any type of lapel pin with water and mild soap, using a soft cloth. Dry them immediately. Metal ones can be polished or cleaned using a jewelry cleaning solution, but make sure that you you follow the manufacturers’ directions so you do not damage any of the cloisonne or enamel on the pins.
- Once you have your basic collection set, meaning that you have the ones you need toward completion or fulfilling a goal, keep the extras aside to use in trades for other pieces you may need. Keep these extras in good condition to maintain their trading value.
- Remember that collecting is a fun hobby. It is a great past time, and can almost become addictive. Do not let it become an obsession; this will take all of the enjoyment out of it.
Lapel Pin Trading Tips and Etiquette
A fun and economical way to add to your lapel pin collection is by trading pins with other enthusiasts. There are a quite a few benefits to trading pins, such as the savings you will get over having to purchase new pins to add to your collection. Trading also gives you the opportunity to get pins that may not be readily available for purchase, or another trader may have just the pin you’ve been looking for. There is also the social aspect to trading. Traveling to different trading events will give you the opportunity to meet and mingle with other people who share your interest. Many great friendships have been formed in this manner. You will also have a chance to learn more about your hobby from people who may have more experience, and to see different collections.
If you have never traded, you may be a little intimidated at first, or unsure how to begin. Here is a brief primer on the art of the trade; where to do it and how its done.
Trading in Person
An easy way to begin trading is to trade with friends who also collect pins. This is a common method with children who are trading collectibles. Does anyone remember baseball cards, or more recently Pokemon and slammers? If you are in business or a conventioneer, you could begin by trading with other people that you meet at conventions and corporate events. In fact, traveling for conventions and trade shows is a great way to pick up product pins and city or state pins. There are also societies, locally and all over the world, where people gather for the purpose of trading collectibles. If you belong to one, such as the Hard Rock Cafe Collectors, your groups’ newsletter or web page will inform you of upcoming trade events. The same applies to Disney and many other collection societies. A quick web search will also show you many other opportunities to trade that may not be official affiliated with a particular product, but are groups of like-minded collectors and trading societies. Flea markets are also a good place to find opportunities to trade collectibles locally.
Once you find a place to trade, you can approach trading casually or more methodically, with a wish list of items you need or would like. Gather all of your trading pins, making sure that they are in the best possible condition. Many lapel pin collectors wear their pins on hats, shirts, or vests to better display them and facilitate a trade.
Once you arrive at the venue, don’t be afraid to walk around and talk to people, mingle a little. There will usually be a mixture of novices like yourself and others at every level of trading experience. If you meet someone who has interesting pins, ask to see them. Sometimes they will take them off to give you a better look, but never touch someones’ items without asking first. If some one asks to see one of your pins, you can likewise remove it for them to inspect, making sure that the pin back is firmly attached before you hand it to them. It is OK to ask questions about origin or value, and if you are not sure of a fair trade, you can ask another, more experienced trader for help.
Once you have agreed upon a trade, thank them for trading with you, and then you can either make another trade with this person or look around. If you are not able to negotiate a trade, its OK. There will be other opportunities, and the more often you trade, they more experience and confidence you will have.
There are some general rules about in person trading that you should remember to make the experience a positive one.
- Always trade only one pin at a time. This avoids confusion and eliminates the possibility of loss. An exception to this rule is if one or the other pins is of a higher value, and the only fair trade is several pins of lesser value.
- Always be polite, asking to see merchandise, and thanking the other trader whether a trade was negotiated or not.
- Always make sure that the pin back is firmly in place before you hand your pin to someone. This keeps both pieces together and avoids the possibility of injury to yourself or another trader.
- Do not let someone try to force you into a trade that you are unsure of, and never try to pressure another trader just to get your way.
- Do not interrupt when others are making a trade. Wait until they have concluded their business, and then approach.
- Don’t take it too seriously. Have fun with your trading.
Trading on the Internet
Trading on the Internet has opened up a wide range of ways to trade any collectible. Traders are no longer limited by geography, and can trade with people from all over the world. In some ways this can be as social as in-person trading, and many long-distance friendships have developed in this manner. There are many ways to find collectibles online, and a search engine is a good place to start. In addition to sites that are specifically for pin trading, you can find groups, forums, and chats which can put you in touch with other traders. Traders who operate online will usually have a list of pins that they are looking for as well as pictures of pins that they have to trade.
Most online trading is done via email contact. If you see a pin you are interested in, send that person a message, asking any questions you may have. The normal rules of politeness apply online as well as in person. Be polite when making an inquiry, and thank them for their time. Do not worry if you do not receive an answer right away. This is one drawback of online trading, and if you do not have a answer with in a few days, it is OK to send a follow-up email stating that you had previously inquired about such and such pin, and are still interested in making a trade. When you do receive a response, reply in as timely a manner as possible.
If a trade is agreed upon, then it is time to negotiate the transfer of pins, which will necessarily have to be made through the regular mail. Here are some of the specifics that should be clearly defined up front, in writing:
- A detailed description of exactly which pins are to be traded. A follow-up confirmation of the trade and the terms should be sent by both parties.
- The specifics about shipping methods and timing. This includes how the pins will be shipped, such as first class mail, UPS, or FedEx. If the other person wants special terms, like overnight shipping, which person will incur the cost should be negotiated up front.
- Make sure that your pin is wrapped securely so that it will arrive in good condition. Bubble wrap is a good way to ensure this.
- Attach the pin to a card or piece of cloth before wrapping so it will not be lost, and use the appropriate sized box for the package.
- Make sure that you have sufficient postage and insure the package. It costs only pennies to insure an item for shipping, and that is better than having to reimburse someone for an item that never arrives in the first place.
- After you ship your item, email the other party to inform them of this. If there will be a delay in shipping the pin, let them know this as soon as possible.
There are some other things that you should know when dealing with someone online. Check out the other trader to insure that they are reputable. Online auction sites have seller-feedback sections that rate the seller or trader based on their interaction with others who have done business with them in the past.. You can also ask for references, or talk to other traders in chats or forums who may have had experience with this person before.
A soon as you receive your pin, inspect it to make sure it is what you expected, and then email the trader to inform them that you have received the item. If you are unhappy with the item, email and politely explain the problem, and try to find a way to rectify the situation. Reputable dealers will be more than happy to work with you.
One last note about trading, whether in person or online. Always strive to be polite and professional in your approach, even if you meet with another trader who isn’t. Ask for the assistance of other traders if you meet with a difficult situation. Collecting communities are a tight-knit group, and many who are regular traders know each other and are more than willing to assist new traders if necessary. As long as you approach collecting and trading in the right frame of mind and are polite, professional, and dependable, you should find that you will develop relationships that are mutually beneficial. Happy trading!
Famous Collections
Nearly everyone has probably received a lapel pin at some point in their life, for some purpose. There are some who collect lapel pins almost by accident, in the course of business, and there are many avid and active lapel pin collectors the world over. Here are a couple of collections of note.
Madeleine Albright
The former Secretary of State is so well-known for her collection of pins that she wrote a book called “Read My Pins,” and staged a pin exhibition to promote its publication. Although her collection of over 200 pins contains some jewelry, most are lapel pins, and each pin has a certain meaning for her. For example, her cloisonne panda pin was worn during a 2008 Arctic summit on CO2 emissions and climate change.
“McFred”
Fred Huebner is a McDonald’s franchise owner and avid McDonald’s lapel pin collector. In his over 20 years of collecting, he has amassed 20,000 unique pins, and has some 120,000 extras that he trades with. Every month, he awards many of his 500+ employees with special McDonald’s pins for outstanding service. Some of these pins are for employee achievements such as “Perfect Drawer” or “Best Drive-thru Service.”
