Overview
A charming sterling silver lapel pin depicting a single blooming rosebud on a stem with two detailed leaves. The reverse features a textured finish and is stamped with a copyright symbol and the maker's mark 'CTI'.
Preliminary identification
CTI Sterling Silver Rose Lapel Pin
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
This delicate silver rosebud was designed to be worn close to the heart on a lapel or collar. In the late 20th century, such pins were popular tokens of affection, friendship, or remembrance, carrying on the Victorian 'language of flowers' where a single rosebud symbolized hope, beauty, and new beginnings.
Maker / Origin
The mark 'CTI' is associated with a mid-to-late 20th-century American jewelry manufacturer known for producing high-quality sterling silver and gold-plated thematic charms, seasonal pins, and promotional jewelry. They specialized in highly detailed, miniature sculptural pieces that captured everyday beauty in precious metals.
Condition & Value
The pin is in excellent vintage condition with light surface wear and a gentle, natural patina that highlights the details of the petals. The butterfly clutch back is present and functions securely. Excellent condition helps maintain its value at the higher end of the range.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.