Hammered Copper Pin Appraisal

Vintage Hammered Copper Maple Leaf Pin or Brooch

This item is a decorative brooch or pin fashioned in the shape of a stylized three-lobed maple leaf, likely dating from the mid-20th century. The piece is constructed from copper, exhibiting a warm, reddish-brown metallic tone that is characteristic of the material. A prominent feature of this item is the hand-hammered or planished texture across the entire surface of the leaf, which creates a dimpled, light-reflective effect associated with Arts and Crafts or Mid-Century Modern artisanal jewelry. The leaf is convexly curved to provide a sense of three-dimensional depth and organic realism. Running down the center vertical axis of the leaf is a contrasting metal wire, possibly brass or gold-toned base metal, which acts as the 'midrib' and curls around the bottom to form the stem. On the reverse side, there is a simple pin-and-catch mechanism. The condition appears fair to good; there is a noticeable dark patina and oxidation in the recessed areas of the hammered texture and around the central wire, which is typical for aged copper. There are no immediately visible maker's marks in the image, though pieces of this style were frequently produced by notable American craft companies like Renoir of California or Gregora during the 1940s-1950s. The craftsmanship suggests a mass-produced but high-quality souvenir or fashion accessory of its era.