Airplane lapel pins are one hot commodity in the trading world. Pin collectors worldwide love the look and appeal of these small pieces of memorabilia. A replica of a 747 or pair of aviation wings are enough to send hobbyists into a frenzy. In fact, airplane enthusiasts collect everything from Safety Cards to airline advertisements. Custom lapel pins from the different manufacturers—Boeing, Cessna, Raytheon, and Beechcraft are highly collectible.

Places like the Airline History Museum in Kansas City, Missouri draw airplane enthusiasts. Gifts shops selling custom lapel pins do well because of the crowds they bring in. Everyone interested in aviation history can appreciate a souvenir from a certain time period. Custom lapel pins sell well in this arena.

Charles Lindbergh, the Wright Brothers, and Amelia Earhart remain in the minds of those individuals interested in flight. These iconic figures are often featured on the front of lapel pins. People wanting to learn more about their lives and careers can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina. Visitors to the park’s center can see a full-scale reproduction of the 1902 glider, a full-scale reproduction of the 1903 flying machine, an engine block from the original 1903 Flyer, and a reproduction of the Wrights’ first wind tunnel.

Pilots, stewards, and stewardesses often collect airline memorabilia because it reminds them of the career path that they have chosen. Custom lapel pins serve as a part of their personal history and are therefore considered sentimental. Rich in perceived value, the small pieces of identification and tokens of appreciation become cherished parts of their collection with each tiny airplane representing a certain era of their lives.