I don’t like to make a lot of specific predictions regarding what will be the next collectible trend, but…
1970's ERA Yes Pinback
On July 21, 2009, Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) reintroduced the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to the 111th Congress, and I believe that this current push to give 50% of our nation’s population equal rights & protections under constitutional law will generate not only a renewed conversation about tree equality for women, but a renewed interest in ERA memorabilia and related political items.
Though an equal rights amendment was first proposed in 1928, the fight for the ERA as most of us know (or remember) it began in the 70’s and is closely associated with feminism in general. While the amendment passed in Congress in 1972, it was three states shy of being ratified before the deadline in 1982.
Resisting the urge to give a long rant on the seeming incomprehensible nature of the denial of what should be a commonsense amendment, I believe this renewed battle leaves the collector with increased incentive & opportunities to look for retro ERA pins, political literature, photos and other ephemera as well as the opportunity to collect similar items being made now, in the moment, documenting the current struggle.
Retro Stop ERA Pinback
The original ERA items are not as plentiful as one would imagine; perhaps it’s their ephemeral nature combined with their relative “newness” (as compared to, say, suffrage items) which has resulted in slim offerings. Or maybe it’s the fact that those embittered by a battle lost have held onto their items, so they are not for sale (and it does seem as if the anti-ERA items are more plentiful). But whatever the case, collectors who eschew the easy-to-find for the thrill-of-the-hunt will find themselves challenged.
Don’t only look for the simple (obvious) pins & papers with “ERA” printed on them; the ERA’s battle was backed by two First Ladies who may seem (in your recollection) unlikely candidates: First Lady Pat Nixon was a firm believer in the Equal Rights Amendment, and First Lady Betty Ford was so outspoken in favor of it that she was quite controversial. So your collecting/hunting should include looking for their names along with the usual feminist suspects and publications.
Betty Ford Campaign Pinback, 1976
Don’t overlook such wearable things as jewelry, iron-ons, and t-shirts too.
Retro ERA Bracelet
And what is currently available, old or new, is priced to sell — making ERA memorabilia affordable, even in today’s market. Authentic 1970s ERA pinbacks in lovely conditions can be purchased for just a few dollars; new pinbacks in support of the amendment are just $1.50.
