Political Campaign Pin, Cox and Roosevelt

FDR wins again. In March 2022, a “unicorn” of the political collectible world sold for nearly $200,000. Hake’s Auctions sold a truly rare campaign pinback button for 1920 presidential candidate James M. Cox and running mate Franklin D. Roosevelt. The price, $185,850 (including buyer’s premium), far exceeded the previous record of $70,092 for a pinback, […]

Celebrating the Fourth

Dear Lee, Welcome to our special Fourth of July Americana issue! To honor the day, this month we emphasize objects made in America or by American designers. Ralph and I were always on the lookout for vintage presidential and patriotic collectibles at flea markets and house sales. They are as varied and different as the […]

Presidents’ Day: Political Buttons Are Great Collectibles 

Pull out your red, white and blue next week for Presidents’ Day on Monday.  Originally established in 1885 in recognition of President George Washington, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents’ Day after it was moved as part of 1971’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act. It consolidated official celebrations of Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12) and Washington’s […]

William Henry Harrison Political Ribbon

Q:  I found this political item in a 117-year old book I purchased. It’s made of cloth with black printing and is about 4 inches wide and 8 inches long. How can I find out what it is worth? A:  William Henry Harrison and John Tyler, members of the Whig Party, were elected in 1840. […]

Declaration of Independence Broadside Sells

A rare 1776 broadside edition of the Declaration of Independence from the Collection of Ambassador J. William Middendorf II sold for $990,000. After the approved text of the Declaration was adopted on July 4, 1776, Continental Congress sent copies to  assemblies and committees in the 13 self-proclaimed United States printed by John Dunlap of Philadelphia. […]

When Is an Old Sweater a Treasure Worth Thousands?

An old red wool cardigan sweater grabbed a lot of attention at a recent auction. A hint as to why can be found in the collar: a label embroidered with “Kennedy” still attached by sturdy red threads. John F. Kennedy’s Harvard sweater sold for $85,266 in an online sale by RR Auction of Boston. The […]