Hair Pins Value Guide

This set of mid-century hair pins represents the transition of utilitarian hair care into the stylish 1950s and 1960s American aesthetic. Featuring both a functional U-shaped pin and a decorative companion, these metal accessories are quintessential examples of the 'bobby pin' evolution following the bob hairstyle craze.

What affects the value of Hair Pins?

• The presence of the original decorative element significantly increases the set's $10-$15 value.
• Overall condition of the metal, including lack of rust or significant bending, preserves the item's worth.
• The historical provenance as a United States origin piece from the post-war era.
• Completeness of the set, as having both the U-shaped and decorative pins together is preferred by collectors.

How to Identify Hair Pins?

• Look for the distinct U-shaped silhouette characteristic of mid-20th century American manufacturing.
• Examine the metal for authentic patina or wear consistent with 1950-1960 era production.
• Identify the set by the presence of one purely functional pin paired with one specifically designed for decorative display.
• Check for 'Made in USA' stampings which were common on metal vanity items from this period.

History of Hair Pins

Hairpins have been used for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek civilizations. Early hairpins were crafted from materials like bone, ivory, bronze, and gold, serving not only to hold hair but also as decorative status symbols. The more common, utilitarian U-shaped hairpin, often referred to as a 'bobby pin,' gained widespread popularity in the 20th century, particularly after the bob hairstyle became fashionable in the 1920s. The term 'bobby pin' is thought to have originated from this iconic haircut. These simple yet effective tools continue to be a staple in hairstyling worldwide, evolving in materials and decorative forms over time.