Overview
The button features a clear 'GREEN DUCK CO. CHICAGO' maker's mark on the curl, alongside specific union bugs (Allied Printing Trades Council Chicago 313, I. P. E. U. 634) on the back paper.
Identification
John F. Kennedy 1960 Presidential Campaign Button by Green Duck Co.
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
Manufactured by the Green Duck Co. in Chicago, a prolific and historically significant producer of political campaign buttons during the mid-20th century. The presence of the Allied Printing Trades Council and I. P. E. U. union bugs authenticates its period production for the 1960 John F. Kennedy presidential campaign. The market for standard 1960 JFK campaign buttons is highly saturated but maintains steady, low-level demand from entry-level political memorabilia collectors.
Maker / Origin
Green Duck Co.
Condition & Value
The button appears in excellent vintage condition based on the provided description, with clear celluloid, vibrant colors, and an intact back paper insert. Any hidden rust on the metal back or foxing on the paper insert would slightly impact its appeal to mint-condition collectors.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The market for standard 1960 JFK campaign buttons is highly saturated but maintains steady, low-level demand from entry-level political memorabilia collectors. Standard 1-inch portrait buttons trade frequently and predictably. High premiums in this category are strictly reserved for rare sizes, staff-specific issues, or highly unusual union bug placements.
Value Drivers
▲ Confirmed 1-inch diameter aligns with the most recognizable and widely collected standard size
▲ Original back paper with clear union bugs guarantees 1960 period authenticity
▲ Clear 'GREEN DUCK CO. CHICAGO' maker's mark on the curl adds documented provenance
Concerns
▼ High survival rate of standard 1-inch 1960 JFK buttons caps the ceiling value significantly compared to larger variants
▼ Unverified metal back condition — active rust or a broken pinback would drop the value to the lower $5-$10 floor
Best Venue
Given the modest value of standard 1-inch campaign buttons, this is best sold on a broad secondary marketplace like eBay or Etsy. List with a Buy-It-Now price of $15-$20, ensuring clear photos of the curl text and back paper union bugs are included to attract detail-oriented collectors.
Upside Potential
If the specific union bug placement or numbering is identified by a specialist as a rare, unlisted variant in the Hake guide, the value could push toward the $100 tier, though this is uncommon for standard 1-inch Green Duck issues.