Reddy Kilowatt Lapel Pin Value Guide

The Reddy Kilowatt lapel pin is a quintessential piece of mid-century corporate Americana, representing the friendly face of the electric utility industry. Created by Ashton B. Collins Sr., this character humanized electricity through its distinctive lightning bolt body and light bulb nose, making these pins highly sought-after artifacts of 1950s marketing.

What affects the value of Reddy Kilowatt Lapel Pin?

• Condition of the red enamel, as chips or fading significantly impact the $22-$24 market price.
• Presence of original patina on the brass elements versus over-polished surfaces.
• The integrity of the attachment pin on the back, with original fasteners commanding higher interest.
• Clarity of the facial features, particularly the light bulb nose and circular eyes.

How to Identify Reddy Kilowatt Lapel Pin?

• Look for the signature lightning bolt torso and limbs finished in vibrant red enamel.
• Verify the base material is brass, consistent with 1950-1960 production standards.
• Check for the iconic light bulb nose and wall-plug ears that define the authentic character design.
• Examine the reverse side for period-appropriate clutch or safety pin fasteners used by Alabama Power Company licensed distributors.

History of Reddy Kilowatt Lapel Pin

Created in 1926 by Ashton B. Collins Sr. of the Alabama Power Company, Reddy Kilowatt served as the face of the investor-owned electric utility industry for over 70 years. The character was designed with a light bulb nose and a torso made of lightning bolts to represent the safety and efficiency of electricity. These pins were widely distributed to utility employees and the general public during the mid-20th century to humanize the concept of electrical power.