Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming collection of six vintage women's bowling achievement awards, including five enamel lapel pins and one gold-tone snake-chain keychain. These pieces celebrate milestones from the Women's International Bowling Congress (WIBC) and the Honolulu Women's Bowling Association (HWBA), including coveted 'League High Series' and '600 Club' achievements.
Story
In 1916, forty women gathered in St. Louis to form the WIBC because they were barred from joining the male-only bowling congress. Decades later, these vibrant enamel pins and keychains were proudly worn on bowling shirts and bags as hard-won badges of athletic honor. They represent a golden era of community sports when local leagues were the beating heart of American social life.
Maker / Origin
The Women's International Bowling Congress (WIBC) was the largest sports organization for women in the world before merging into the United States Bowling Congress in 2005. The Honolulu Women's Bowling Association (HWBA) represented Hawaii's passionate bowling community.
Condition & Value
The collection is in very good vintage condition. The enamel remains bright and intact across all pieces with no major chipping, and the gold-tone plating shows only minor surface wear and light oxidation consistent with age. All pin backings and the keychain clasp are fully functional.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.