Pin Grading Guide
Standard/A-Grade Pins
A-grades are pins that are flawless or have minor blemishes only noticeable if inspected within arm's reach. A-grades are sold at full price. They are perfect to add to your display!
- Light scratches on the surface of the metal
- Small stains (may be removable with rubbing alcohol)
- Dust particles trapped in the enamel
- Minor offset in screen-printing
- Minor under/overfilled areas of enamel
- Bumps on the metal of the pin
- Discoloring on the back of the pin
- Bent backing posts (may be bent back into place using pliers/the side of another enamel pin)
Seconds/B-Grade Pins
B-grades are pins that have one or few noticeable flaws on the front of the design. B-grades are sold at a discount. They are perfect for everyday wear, where they may be scratched by other objects.
- Long scratches on the metal or enamel
- Major stains on central elements of the design (face, eyes, etc.)
- Major offset or missing screen-printing
- Miscolored areas of enamel