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Collecting Political Buttons

Introduction
Anyone with an interest in American history will find the collecting of political buttons and memorabilia a rewarding hobby. The term political buttons is used here to mean all forms of lapel devices including buttons. As with all forms of collecting, there is the pleasure of the hunt and satisfaction with the find. Each button tells a story. A sense of the entire history of America can be gained from the study of political buttons. Political buttons should be displayed so that friends and visitors upon viewing a collection can share the collector's enjoyment.

Study the Hobby
Before purchasing political buttons, it would be wise for a collector to obtain at least a modicum of knowledge on the subject. There are quite a few reference books in and out of print that the collector would be wise to study and/or purchase. However, a beginning collector need not become an expert before beginning his acquisitions. If he deals with recognized honest and knowledgeable dealers, he can begin his acquisitions concurrently with his study of the hobby.

Seeking Reputable Sources
Political buttons are available from antique dealers, specialized political button dealers, other collectors, political parties during campaigns, and on the Internet. Of course, it is always possible that a friend or relative has some political buttons in a dresser drawer. The Internet is an easy way to obtain buttons without travel or great effort but is risky for the novice collector. It should be noted here, that there are many copies, fakes, and fantasy pieces being passed off as original. Copies or reproductions are generally marked or changed in some way to indicate their status as non-originals. Fakes or brumigans are produced with the intent to fraudulently deceive purchasers. Fantasy pieces are not copies of originals, but new designs that are usually easy for even a novice to detect. An example of a fantasy piece might be a celluloid button for William Henry Harrison, whose presidency occurred before the existence of celluloid buttons.

Condition and Preservation
When purchasing political buttons, condition should always be considered. A rusted or scratched piece may be valueless even though in pristine condition quite desirable. Therefore, it is important to purchase pieces in the best condition that the collector can find and afford. It is also important to keep the pieces, once purchased, from suffering any damage. Careful handling and storage can accomplish this. Light, especially sunlight or florescent light should be avoided. A glass display case, out of direct sunlight, is one way of protecting and displaying the collection without damage. Glass filters most harmful (ultraviolet) light. Keeping buttons in a felt lined drawer will completely eliminate light damage. They should also be stored away from humidity.

Conclusion
Political buttons is a broad field of endeavor. A collector may wish to specialize in a period of time, type of lapel device, particular cause, politician or type of political office such as U.S. President. Generally, items from presidential campaigns are the most popular. Items from certain causes or events of national or international importance are also quite desirable and valuable. Political buttons can be purchased for pennies or many thousands of dollars. Examples, of celluloid buttons for every president since McKinley can be obtained for a modest sum. On the other hand, certain buttons of two twentieth century Democratic presidential candidates are among the most valuable of all political memorabilia. There is something in the hobby to fit almost everyone's interest and budget.