Political portrait celluloid pinback button or lapel badge

Political portrait celluloid pinback button or lapel badge

Toys / Memorabilia / Ephemera
Uncommon
Identified on October 28, 2026

Estimated Value

$20-$75

A small round political or commemorative pinback badge featuring two formal portrait busts of men in suits and ties. The image appears to be a printed or photographic transfer protected by a glossy celluloid or similar surface. The design is simple and utilitarian, typical of early campaign buttons, fraternal badges, or commemorative portrait pins. No maker's mark, date, or identifying text is visible in the image, so the exact subjects cannot be determined from the photograph alone.

Era

Early 20th century, likely 1900s-1920s

Origin

United States or Western Europe, exact origin unknown

Material

Printed paper or photographic image under celluloid or lacquered surface, metal pinback fitting

Condition

Fair. Visible age toning/yellowing, surface wear, and possible discoloration. The pin stem is present but the full reverse side is not visible, so working condition cannot be confirmed.

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Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter

Weight

Light

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium. The construction and aging are consistent with an early 20th-century pinback, but the lack of a reverse view, maker's mark, or identifying text limits certainty.

Provenance

Likely a campaign, commemorative, or organizational pin produced for a political event, civic group, or memorial purpose. Specific provenance unknown without reverse markings or accompanying documentation.

Historical Significance

Such portrait pins were widely used in political campaigns, reform movements, and commemorative events in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They are of interest as examples of early mass-produced political memorabilia and photographic transfer badge production.

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.

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