William McKinley political campaign pinback button
Estimated Value
$75-$200
A round political campaign button or pinback featuring a portrait of U.S. President William McKinley. The design includes patriotic and industrial imagery with the words 'PROTECTION,' 'EXPANSION,' and 'PROSPERITY,' reflecting campaign themes associated with McKinley's era. The piece appears to be a printed lithographic campaign collectible mounted on a metal pinback base, likely distributed for political promotion. The typography, portrait style, and decorative border are consistent with late 19th-century American campaign memorabilia.
Era
Late Victorian Era / U.S. Presidential Campaign of 1896-1900
Origin
United States
Material
Printed paper lithograph over metal button/pinback base
Condition
Good overall condition with visible age toning, light surface wear, and minor discoloration/fading consistent with age; no obvious major tears or severe damage visible from the front
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter
Weight
Light
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium-High; the design and materials are consistent with genuine period campaign memorabilia, though confirmation would require inspection of the reverse, pin mechanism, and maker's mark
Provenance
Likely produced in the United States for William McKinley's presidential campaign or related Republican political promotion, most plausibly circa 1896 or 1900
Historical Significance
William McKinley campaign items are historically significant as artifacts of the 1896 and 1900 elections, which emphasized tariffs, industrial growth, and American expansionism. Such buttons reflect the rise of modern political advertising and mass-produced campaign ephemera in the United States.
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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