19th century pinback-looking for more info

[robw]

Picked this up on ebay about a month ago...seller seemed to think, based on 30+ collecting experience, that dates back to mid-to-late 19th century. Anyone have a little more insight on the provenance? Thanks!

[springpin]

Mid-1800s would be a stretch. More like late 1880s to early 1890s, slightly pre-dating the use of celluloid. I have seen these types of items in the shape of a star, with the position in the middle. Definitely a very old pin.

Paul

[springpin]

I should add it is possible there once might have been more to this pin. If the four tips feel jagged, perhaps they are the remnants of some other original design. Maybe one or two broke off, and the others were removed to make the pin symmetrical.

[robw]

great info....thanks! looks like the tips are slightly jagged, and looking really closely, does look like another piece would have been on the top and bottom. good call. any guess as to a value? thanks again!

[springpin]

Given its condition, not very much. However, I would treasure it as among the very first non-paper mementoes ever produced for fans of the game. Anything pre-celluloid is a very old collectible.

[robw]

thanks again for the information!