P2 Sweet Caporal metal question
 

I am interested in the make-up of the 1910-1912 P2 Sweet Caporal pins. I am trying to learn more about them before possibly heading down this "collecting road". I have found several great articles about the set online, but none tell me what the pin itself is made from. Are the pins made out of tin? I see that rust seems to be a concern....which is why I assume they are made of that metal. Do any collectors here find the rust damages the paper insert on the back or the photo on the front or is that damage mainly from tobacco staining?

I don't collect them, but I do have a few...

I cannot answer all of your questions, but I do know that the pins are STRONGLY magnetic and are unlikely to be made of tin, which is weakly magnetic at best. They are likely steel or other iron based alloy...

My 2 cents...

One positive of rust is it's a good sign the pin is genuine.