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Item:Antique American Flag Celluloid Pinback Button Premium
Manufacturer:The Whitehead & Hoag Co., Newark, N.J.
Advertiser / Promoter:American Pepsin Gum Co.
Estimated Era:circa 1896 – 1899
Size:Approx. 7/8\" (Standard vintage premium size)Item Description & History:
Up for sale is a beautiful, highly historic antique celluloid patriotic pinback button featuring the American flag. This piece is a rare 1890s advertising premium distributed by theAmerican Pepsin Gum Co.inside their chewing gum packaging, likely part of their celebrated turn-of-the-century \"Flags of the World\" or patriotic promotional sets.The reverse features its incredibly rare, original paper insert/backliner. The backmark explicitly states:\"Buttons Made By The Whitehead & Hoag Co. Newark, N.J.\"along with foundational early patent dates fromJuly 17, \'94, April 14, \'96, and July 21, \'96, firmly dating this piece to the Spanish-American War era. Whitehead & Hoag were the absolute pioneers of the celluloid pin, making this a true holy grail combination for both advertising collectors and exonumia enthusiasts.Condition Report:
- Front:The celluloid remains tight and intact. The colors of the American flag are vibrant with excellent graphic preservation. Displays beautiful, authentic age-appropriate toning/patina.
- Reverse:Highly unique condition—the fragile paper insert backliner is complete, crisp, and fully legible. The original straight-pin fastening mechanism is intact and functional.
- Please review the high-resolution photos carefully to judge exact cosmetic condition for yourself before offerding.
