Grading Policy

 Disclaimer

Please note that while these guidelines are broadly applicable to most pins, each individual pin design presents its own challenges during the manufacturing process and exhibits its own range of flaws. This list is not exhaustive, it’s simply meant to be a guide. Remember that every pin is handmade and there’s no such thing as a perfect pin.

Standard

Standard Grade pins may exhibit minor manufacturing imperfections that are not immediately apparent at standard viewing distance under normal lighting conditions. These include polishing marks, slight deviations in screenprint, small marks on plating, and pinpricks in discreet areas. They are not guaranteed to be perfect, but they are the best of the batch. The backs and sides of pins are not graded.

Minor Flawed

Minor Flawed pins may exhibit one or more discreet imperfections, including: missing or wrong enamel color in very small areas, enamel underfill or overfill in inconspicuous areas, small discolorations, and scuffed or marked plating. Minor Flaws do not significantly detract from the overall beauty of the pin.

Major Flawed

Major Flawed pins are extremely limited in number and will not be sold via bulk listing. Major Flaws include large, visible areas of enamel underfill, chipped enamel, highly visible areas of enamel overfill, large areas of stained plating, and cracked or marbled enamel. Though flawed, these pins may still be suitable for casual pin collectors who wish to display their pins on bags or clothing, or who do not intend to trade. Please contact me directly if you’re interested in purchasing a Major Flawed pin.