Pin Grading Scale

All enamel pins are handmade which will inevitably contain very minor "flaws" or "imperfections". Please keep in mind that pin grading varies amongst pin makers. Kindly refer to the grading scale below to better understand our standard of grading:

Standard Grade (A)

Highest quality of pins that are free from major defects/flaws but may still include minor imperfections such as:

  • Superficial surface specks or dust
  • Minor scratches or scuffs
  • Minor low or small, uneven areas of enamel filling
  • Small bubbles or tiny holes in the enamel filling
  • Superficial paint drops or spreading into other enamel
  • Slightly misaligned screen-printing
  • Imperfections on the back or side of pin

B-Grades

These pins are discounted due to them containing a few more imperfections than Standard Grade. Typically unnoticeable unless viewed closely/specific angles.

  • Mild-to-moderate metal oxidization
  • Noticeable smudges and/or staining on the metal or enamel surface
  • Larger areas of low or uneven enamel filling
  • Noticeable scuffing/scratches/dents
  • Noticeable faint specks/dust
  • Noticeable screen printing smudges/misalignment
  • Missing small areas of screen-print
  • Slightly wobbly back posts

Seconds (C)

These pins are more heavily discounted due to them containing very noticeable or major flaws:

  • Deep scratches/scuffs/marks
  • Very noticeable dings/holes in enamel filling
  • Very uneven enamel filling in large areas
  • Missing large areas of screen-print
  • Poor metal plating