Wreath Lapel Pin Value Guide

This mid-century American lapel pin features a classic laurel wreath design, a symbol of victory and achievement dating back to ancient Rome. Crafted from gold-tone plated brass between 1950 and 1970, these pins served as distinguished accessories for military, fraternal, and formal attire.

What Is Wreath Lapel Pin Worth?

The typical price range for Wreath Lapel Pin is $10 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the gold-tone plating, specifically looking for signs of wear or brassing on the leaf edges.
• The presence and functionality of the original attachment hardware or clutch back.
• Historical provenance or specific organizational affiliation if the pin was issued by a known fraternal or military order.
• Overall crispness of the wreath casting and the level of detail preserved in the laurel leaf veins.

How to Identify Wreath Lapel Pin?

• Look for the distinct circular laurel leaf pattern characteristic of mid-20th century United States manufacturing.
• Inspect the base metal for brass construction underneath the gold-tone plating.
• Check the reverse side for period-appropriate fasteners such as a classic tie tack or clutch back common in the 1950-1970 era.
• Verify the finish for a consistent gold-tone luster typical of vintage costume jewelry plating techniques.

History of Wreath Lapel Pin

Lapel pins, often featuring heraldic or symbolic designs, have been used for centuries to denote affiliation, achievement, or status. Laurel wreaths, in particular, trace their origins to ancient Greece and Rome, where they symbolized victory, honor, and poetic accomplishment. This specific style of wreath pin saw widespread use across various organizations, military branches, and fraternal orders throughout the 20th century, particularly as a subtle yet distinguished accessory for formal attire or uniforms.