Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Color Corps Lapel Pin

This is a circular enamel lapel pin associated with the Fourth Degree Color Corps of the Knights of Columbus. The pin features a multi-colored design with a hard or soft enamel finish over a gold-toned metal base, likely brass. The outer border is a vibrant medium blue ring containing the embossed capital letters 'COLOR' at the top and 'CORPS' at the bottom. In the center is a white recessed circle housing the emblem of the Fourth Degree: a stylized dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit and peace) perched atop a terrestrial globe, set against a red cross. The dove is rendered in white with black outlines, the globe in blue with black grid lines, and the cross in red. The overall diameter appears to be standard for lapel pins, approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches. The condition appears excellent with no visible chips in the enamel or significant scratches to the metallic rim. The craftsmanship shows clear, sharp lines between the color fields, indicating a quality manufacturing process typical of late 20th-century fraternal regalia. The gold-colored plating is bright and lacks significant oxidation or wear, suggesting it has been well-maintained or remains relatively modern in age.

Based on my visual examination of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Color Corps lapel pin, I find the item to be in excellent aesthetic condition, showing no significant enamel loss, 'flea bites,' or oxidation to the brass-toned base. The sharp registration of the dove and globe symbols against the red cross indicates a standard modern production method. This specific pin is a common regalia item rather than a rare historical artifact. Market demand for such items is consistently low to moderate, primarily limited to active members of the fraternal order or collectors of Catholic memorabilia. Similar examples frequently trade on secondary markets like eBay for nominal amounts. The value is driven purely by utility and organizational affiliation rather than precious metal content or scarcity. While the pin appears authentic in its design and construction, a definitive verification of age and alloy cannot be determined without physical inspection. To finalize a formal authentication, I would need to examine the reverse side for maker's marks, test the metal for gold plating versus solid alloy, and verify provenance to ensure it is not a contemporary reproduction. However, given the nature of the item, it is likely a mass-produced piece from the late 20th century.