Boating Pin Appraisal

United States Power Squadrons Ensign Flag Pin

This item is a small, round lapel pin or badge, likely made of brass or a brass-toned metal alloy, featuring an enameled United States Power Squadrons (USPS) Ensign Flag design set within a ship's wheel motif. The pin measures approximately 1 to 1.5 cm in diameter based on its appearance relative to the human finger holding it. The central part of the design is a rectangular flag, divided into a canton and stripes. The canton, positioned in the upper left, is red with a white/silver anchor in its center, surrounded by nine white/silver stars. The rest of the flag consists of alternating white and blue vertical stripes, with at least seven white and seven blue stripes visible, creating 14 total stripes. This flag design is distinct to the USPS. Surrounding this enameled flag is a gold-toned, three-dimensional representation of a ship's wheel, complete with visible spokes or handles protruding around the circumference. The metal has an antique-gold or bronze patina, suggesting some age and natural oxidation, which adds depth to the details of the ship's wheel. The enamel work appears to be cloisonné or similar hard enamel, showing clear separation between colors and crisp lines, indicating good craftsmanship. There are no readily visible damage, such as chips in the enamel or significant dents in the metal, though a fine layer of grime or tarnish is present in the crevices, consistent with age and use. The overall condition appears to be good for its presumed vintage nature. While no specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the image, the quality of enameling and casting points to a professionally manufactured item, likely dating from the mid-20th century to late 20th century, a period when such organizational pins were popular and widely produced. Its unique combination of the recognized USPS ensign and nautical wheel makes it a distinctive piece of maritime heraldry or militaria.