May Day Pin Appraisal

1937 German May Day (Tag der Arbeit) Tinnie Pin

This is a circular German commemorative badge, commonly known as a 'tinnie,' produced for the May Day (Day of Labor) national holiday in 1937. The item is approximately 35mm in diameter and is struck from a non-precious base metal, likely aluminum or a zinc alloy (Kriegsmetall), featuring a dull grey, matte patina. The design depicts a central figure representing the common worker or youth holding a sprig of oak leaves, standing atop a stylized German national eagle with outstretched wings (Reichsadler), which clutches a wreathed swastika. To the right of the figure is the date '1937' and to the left is the word 'MAI'. The strike shows moderate wear, with softening of the facial features and the eagle's plumage. The surface exhibits characteristic oxidation and minor pitting consistent with age. Such pins were mass-produced for participants of the 1st of May rallies during the Third Reich era. While the reverse is not visible, these typically feature a soldered horizontal safety pin for attachment and may contain a RZM maker's mark or manufacturer's name. The craftsmanship is utilitarian, reflecting its nature as a mass-distributed propaganda ephemeral item rather than high jewelry.