Victorian-era theatrical pinback button or celluloid promotional badge featuring Isabel Irving
Estimated Value
$20-$75
Small round promotional pin or button featuring a sepia-toned portrait of actress Isabel Irving, with her name printed below the image. The piece appears to be a mass-produced advertising or fan collectible, likely associated with theater publicity or a performance promotion. The design is simple, with a portrait centered on a cream-colored background and a visible pin stem at the bottom. The item shows typical aging for early 20th-century paper or celluloid memorabilia.
Era
Late Victorian to Edwardian Era, likely circa 1890s-1910s
Origin
United States, likely produced for theatrical promotion
Material
Printed paper or celluloid face over metal backing with a pin attachment
Condition
Fair; visible age toning, surface staining, and wear to the printed image and lettering. The pinback appears intact, but the face shows significant discoloration consistent with age and storage.
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 1.25 to 1.5 inches in diameter
Weight
Light
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium; the style, typography, and portrait presentation are consistent with period promotional memorabilia, but the exact date and manufacturer cannot be confirmed from the image alone.
Provenance
Likely a promotional item distributed in connection with actress Isabel Irving's stage career, possibly sold or given away as theater memorabilia in the United States.
Historical Significance
Items like this are notable as early celebrity and theater memorabilia, reflecting the rise of mass-produced promotional collectibles tied to stage performers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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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