The Emergence of Lapel Pins

Like challenge coins, lapel pins adorn every enthusiast’s collection and account for an interesting history. Contrary to popular perception that lapel pins serve as ornaments it is important to know that for ages they have been worn to convey the rank to which a military personnel or a Government employee belongs.. It was during the American Civil war that lapel pins appeared for the first time introduced mainly to mark the difference between ranks inside the army. This triggered a new found loyalty among servicemen belonging to the same rank.

However, by World War I lapel pins emerged with a new definition. Instead of being used as a mark representing varying units they were reserved for a selective few and became a token of honor. Lapel pins continue to serve the same purpose within the armed forces today as they did earlier. What has changed is the value they exhibit. They are priced by families of the recipients as a symbol of honor and pride. It is because of the historical importance attached that they have come to occupy a special position among other army collectibles including challenge coins.

They are nowadays used by groups and organizations other than the armed forces. They are worn by members from the same fraternity during meetings. People around the globe have discovered other applications as well. Many wear them just to show their solidarity towards a particular cause. From politics to social issues they have traversed every arena nearly. Large to medium sized businesses, sporting fraternities, schools have not been left out of the purview either. There are many agencies specializing in their sale, offering services not only off shop premises but through the internet as well.