Political memorabilia has long fascinated collectors, and few items are as iconic as presidential campaign buttons. What began as simple promotional tools have evolved into tiny pieces of American history, offering insight into the social, political, and cultural climates of their times. From the earliest designs of the 1800s to limited-edition pins from more recent elections, some of these buttons now fetch serious money. Whether you’re a history buff, or a vintage collector, these 10 presidential campaign buttons are worth a lot.
10. Barack Obama “Hope” Button
While relatively recent, Obama’s 2008 campaign buttons, especially those featuring the Shepard Fairey “Hope” design, have already become collector staples. Limited-edition pins, especially from early campaign stops, are sought after. Their value is expected to increase as they become rarer in the resale market of presidential campaign buttons.
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9. Ronald Reagan “Let’s Make America Great Again” Button
This slogan originated with Reagan’s presidential campaign. These buttons are gaining popularity due to their historical relevance and nostalgic design. In excellent condition, they can bring in around $100–$300.
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8. Richard Nixon “I’m for Nixon” Button
Unusual lithographed buttons like this are harder to find in good condition due to flaking and fading. Nixon’s 1968 “I’m for Nixon” button is a standout from his comeback campaign. Its value has risen in recent years, with versions selling for several hundred dollars.
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7. John F. Kennedy “A Time for Greatness” Button
Kennedy’s 1960 campaign produced a wide variety of button designs, but the “A Time for Greatness” slogan is among the most collectible. Its clean lines and inspirational message resonate with both vintage collectors and political historians. Pristine versions can sell for $200–$500, and higher if part of a full campaign kit.
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6. Franklin D. Roosevelt “FDR Four Terms” Button
This button celebrated FDR’s historic fourth-term run and is often found in sets. It’s notable not just for its historical milestone but also for being among the most colorful and graphically rich presidential campaign buttons of the WWII era. Buttons from this campaign can fetch up to $1,000 depending on rarity and design.
5. Al Smith “Happy Warrior” Button
Although Al Smith lost to Herbert Hoover, his campaign memorabilia remains in high demand, especially the “Happy Warrior” button featuring a smiling portrait. These buttons are known for their art deco style and vivid colors. Well-preserved examples can go for $300–$600, especially with original backings.
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4. Woodrow Wilson “Win With Wilson” Button
During his successful campaign against Theodore Roosevelt and William Taft, Wilson’s team released a series of eye-catching buttons. The “Win With Wilson” slogan, paired with patriotic red, white, and blue styling, has made this one a favorite among collectors of presidential campaign buttons. Depending on condition, it can be worth several hundred dollars.
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3. Theodore Roosevelt “Rough Rider” Button
This rare pin features Roosevelt in his iconic Rough Rider uniform and symbolizes his military past and rugged image. Collectors prize these buttons for their bold imagery and historical significance. Clean, high-resolution prints on these early buttons are hard to find, and often exceed $1,500.
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2. William McKinley “Gold Bug” Button
This button is famous for its unique design: a literal gold bug attached to a campaign ribbon. The bug represented McKinley’s support of the gold standard. Because of its fragile structure, few have survived intact, making this one of the most desirable presidential campaign buttons for serious collectors.
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1. Abraham Lincoln Button
One of the oldest and most valuable presidential campaign buttons, this button features a tiny photo of Lincoln mounted on brass. These were distributed during his first campaign and are incredibly rare. In good condition, these buttons can sell for over $5,000, especially if they include the matching portrait of running mate Hannibal Hamlin.
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