Collectable Pin Buying Guide: Enamel Pin Quality and Features

Quick answer

Focus on three things when buying a collectable pin: the enamel type (soft vs. hard), the clasp style, and the design's meaning to you. Soft enamel pins like the Crest of Dagon Pin - Gold and White Enamel and THEY Symbol Pin - Magenta and Black Enamel offer vivid color and a slightly textured surface at a friendly price. Check the size and clasp before you buy, because those details decide how the pin wears and how well it fits your collection.

Collecting enamel pins is one of the most accessible ways to bring your favorite games, myths, and characters into everyday life. But not all pins are made the same, and a little knowledge goes a long way toward avoiding disappointment.

This guide walks you through the features that actually matter—enamel type, size, clasp, and design—so you can buy pins you'll be proud to wear or display. You'll also see how two pins from our store illustrate these points in practice.

Soft enamel vs. hard enamel: what the surface tells you

Soft enamel pins have recessed color areas, so you can feel the metal lines slightly raised above the color. They tend to have a glossy, vibrant look and are usually more affordable. Hard enamel pins are polished flat, giving a smooth, scratch-resistant surface that feels more premium. Neither is objectively better—it depends on the look you prefer and how you plan to use the pin.

If you wear pins on a jacket or bag where they might rub against things, hard enamel's smooth surface resists snags. Soft enamel's texture can add character, especially on detailed designs. Both types are durable when treated with reasonable care.

• Soft enamel: textured surface, vivid colors, budget-friendly.
• Hard enamel: smooth, polished, often more scratch-resistant.
• Check product descriptions for the enamel type before buying.

Size and clasp: the details that decide wearability

Pin size affects where you can wear it and how much detail the design can hold. A 1-inch pin is subtle and works well on lapels, lanyards, or as a small accent. Larger pins (1.25 inches or more) make a bolder statement and can show finer artwork. Always check the listed dimensions—photos can be misleading without a scale reference.

The clasp is equally important. Butterfly clasps are the most common and secure enough for daily wear, but they can be fiddly to put on. Rubber clutches are easier to handle but may loosen over time. Some pins use locking clasps for extra security. If you plan to wear the pin often, a butterfly or locking clasp is a safer bet.

• Measure your intended spot before buying—1 inch is smaller than you think.
• Butterfly clasps are standard and reliable; rubber clutches are easier but less secure.
• Consider upgrading to locking clasps for expensive or rare pins.

Design and licensing: buy what you love, but know what you're getting

The best pin is one that connects to something you already enjoy—a game, a book, a mythos. Original art and officially licensed designs often have more staying power in a collection than generic symbols. Look for clear product images that show the pin's actual colors and finish, not just a digital mockup.

Limited editions and Kickstarter-exclusive pins can become harder to find later, so if a design speaks to you, don't wait too long. That said, avoid buying solely for perceived resale value unless you're deeply familiar with the market. Collect what you like first.

• Choose designs tied to media or themes you already collect.
• Check for actual product photos, not just renders.
• Limited runs may not restock—buy when you see one you want.

How to evaluate pin quality before you buy

When shopping online, you can't hold the pin, so rely on the description and a few key signals. Look for mentions of enamel type, metal finish, dimensions, and clasp style. A detailed description is a good sign that the seller knows their product. If a listing omits these basics, ask before buying.

Price can be a clue, but it's not the whole story. A $6 pin can be well-made and a $15 pin can have flaws. Compare the features you're getting for the price. Also consider shipping costs and packaging—pins shipped in a padded envelope are less likely to arrive damaged than those in a plain paper envelope.

• Read the full description for enamel type, size, and clasp.
• Check return policies in case the pin arrives damaged.
• Factor in shipping when comparing prices across sellers.

Decision rules for buying collectable pins

• If you want a pin for daily wear on a jacket or bag: Choose a hard enamel pin with a butterfly or locking clasp. Hard enamel's smooth surface resists snags, and a secure clasp keeps the pin in place. Soft enamel can work too, but check that the clasp is reliable. Prioritize durability and secure fastening over rarity.
• If you're buying for a specific collection or display: Focus on design relevance and edition size. A pin that ties into a theme you already collect will feel more cohesive. Limited editions may not restock, so buy when you see one that fits. Buy the design first; resale value is secondary.
• If you're on a tight budget: Soft enamel pins are often more affordable and still look great. Set a per-pin limit and stick to it. Remember that shipping can add up, so combine orders when possible. You can build a satisfying collection without spending much per pin.
• If you're buying a gift: Consider the recipient's interests and whether they prefer subtle or bold accessories. A 1-inch pin is a safe, versatile choice. Include a locking clasp back if you want extra security. Match the pin's theme and size to the person, not your own taste.

Two pins that show these features in practice

• Crest of Dagon Pin - Gold and White Enamel: The Crest of Dagon indicates a covenant between a group of people and the Deep Ones. It is also a component in a ritual used to summon them. The pin measures approximately 1 inch in length and uses a butterfly clasp. At about 1 inch, this pin is subtle enough for a lapel or lanyard, and the butterfly clasp is a secure, standard choice for everyday wear. The specific mythos reference makes it a strong pick for collectors of Lovecraftian or occult-themed pins.
• THEY Symbol Pin - Magenta and Black Enamel: We all know the universe is coming to its cataclysmic end and THEY will be the ones to usher in its destruction. Share your allegiance with this soft enamel pin, measuring 1" x 1.25". This pin is slightly larger than 1 inch in one dimension, giving the design a bit more presence. The soft enamel construction typically means a textured surface and vivid color, which suits the bold magenta-and-black palette. It's a good example of how a specific design can drive your buying decision.

Is a collectable pin right for you?

Best for

• Fans who want to display their allegiance to a game, mythos, or character.
• Collectors who enjoy small, affordable items that don't take up much space.
• Gift-givers looking for a thoughtful, themed present under $10.

Not for

• People who prefer large, functional accessories over decorative items.
• Collectors who only want high-end, hard enamel pins and are unwilling to consider soft enamel.
• Anyone who dislikes small, easily misplaced objects.

A good collectable pin is one you'll actually wear or display with pride. By checking enamel type, size, and clasp before you buy, you'll avoid regrets and build a collection that reflects your interests. Start with a design that speaks to you and let your collection grow naturally.