History and Popularity of Grateful Dead Enamel Pins for Pin Collectors

The History and Popularity of Grateful Dead Enamel Pins

Enamel pins have become an increasingly popular way for music fans to show their love and appreciation for their favorite bands. This is especially true when it comes to fans of the legendary rock band, the Grateful Dead. Grateful Dead enamel pins allow Deadheads to proudly display their fandom on their clothing, bags, and other accessories.

The Grateful Dead: An Iconic Band with a Devoted Following

The Grateful Dead was formed in 1965 in Palo Alto, California. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the band became well-known for their unique improvisational style that blended rock, folk, blues, jazz, and psychedelic music. Songs like "Casey Jones," "Truckin'," and "Box of Rain" became classics among rock fans.

But it was the band's live performances that really attracted a devoted following. Grateful Dead concerts were all about the experience - the community, the jams, the creativity. Fans lovingly referred to these concerts as "Dead shows." Many followers began touring with the Dead, attending show after show. This sparked a vibrant subculture known as "Deadheads."

Even after the death of lead guitarist and founder Jerry Garcia in 1995, the band's popularity has continued. The music and culture surrounding the Grateful Dead has spanned generations. Fans today still love the creativity and community inspired by the band. This has made the Grateful Dead one of the most iconic rock bands with an incredibly dedicated fanbase.

Grateful Dead Enamel Pins Allow Fans to Show Their Colors

Enamel pins are pins that are made out of metal and then coated in enamel paint. They are also sometimes called lapel pins. Enamel pins first became popular in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Political candidates and organizations used them in their campaigns. Since then, enamel pins have become collectors’ items and are made representing thousands of subjects.

Music has always been a popular enamel pin theme. Band logos, album covers, and images of artists are common. Enamel pins are an easy, visual way for music fans to display their love of their favorite bands. They can be worn on jackets, hats, purses, and more. The colorful pins add flair and personality to any outfit.

Grateful Dead enamel pins have become very popular among Deadheads. Given the band's instantly recognizable logos and art, they make perfect enamel pin subject matter. Fans can choose enamel pins featuring the iconic Steal Your Face skull logo, dancing bear drawings, the Bertha skeleton art, and other classic Grateful Dead imagery.

Types of Grateful Dead Enamel Pins

There are many different types of Grateful Dead enamel pins out there for fans to collect. Here are some of the most popular styles:

• Dancing Bears - These colorful pins feature bears dancing in a circle, hooked up to each other by a cord. The dancing bears first appeared on the back cover of the album "History of the Grateful Dead, Volume One."
• Steal Your Face Skull - This pin features the famous red and blue skull logo of the Grateful Dead. The Steal Your Face skull is one of the most recognizable symbols of the band.
• Album Art Pins - Pins featuring the cover art of classic Grateful Dead albums like "American Beauty" and "Workingman's Dead."
• Band Member Pins - Pins with the faces of band members like Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, and Phil Lesh.
• Song Title Pins - Pins displaying the names of fan favorite songs like "Casey Jones," "Sugar Magnolia," and "Truckin'."
• Dancing Terrapins - Pins with dancing turtles, a nod to the song "Terrapin Station."
• Parking Lot Pins - Images of iconic Grateful Dead parking lot scenes and shakedown culture.

There are enamel pins to celebrate all aspects of Grateful Dead culture. Many pins also include creative variations on the classic designs.

Where to Buy Grateful Dead Enamel Pins

For collectors looking to buy Grateful Dead enamel pins, there are a few great options:

• Online Shops - Many online retailers like Etsy offer a wide selection of Grateful Dead pins. Fan-run shops are a great place to find unique designs.
• Music Stores - Some independent music stores and chain retailers sell band merchandise like enamel pins. Check local shops or chains like Hot Topic.
• Concerts & Festivals - Grateful Dead tribute acts and festivals are great places to buy pins directly from vendors and artists.
• eBay - Vintage and harder-to-find Grateful Dead pins can often be found on auction sites like eBay.
• Facebook Groups - Joining buy/sell/trade groups for Grateful Dead collectors can help you find pins for sale.

Do some research to find reputable sellers offering officially licensed pins at good prices. Talk to other collectors to get recommendations for the best pins and shops.

Starting and Expanding a Grateful Dead Pin Collection

Collecting Grateful Dead enamel pins can become an exciting and rewarding hobby. Here are some tips for starting and growing a pin collection:

• Look for a sturdy display board or shadowbox frame to safely show off your pins.
• Start with a few of your favorite designs so you can wear and enjoy them.
• Slowly expand into more designs and rarer pins over time.
• Look for enamel pin lots on eBay or Facebook groups to get bundles of pins for a bargain.
• Store pins safely in soft foam or pin books when not on display to prevent damage.
• Trade pins with other collectors to get new designs while clearing duplicates.
• Research the history and stories behind unique vintage pins.
• Focus your collection on certain themes like bears, skulls, albums, etc.

Building a thoughtful Grateful Dead enamel pin collection over time lets you always keep a piece of the Dead close by on your clothes as you travel through life.

Tips for Responsible Pin Collecting

As the popularity of enamel pins continues to grow, it's important for collectors to be responsible and ethical. Here are a few tips:

• When possible, buy pins directly from the artists who designed them.
• Avoid buying counterfeit or bootleg pins that steal artist designs illegally.
• Remove pins before washing clothing to prevent damage and rusting.
• Store pins properly in soft materials away from moisture and sunlight.
• Don't wear pins through airport security - remove them and place in your carry on.
• Repair broken posts or missing backs to avoid losing pins.
• Be selective - focus on quality over quantity in your collection.

By following collecting best practices, your pins will remain in great shape for you to enjoy and share for many years to come.

FAQs

When did Grateful Dead enamel pins become popular?

Grateful Dead pins started emerging in the 1980s and 1990s as the band continued touring and their fanbase grew. The popularity of pins as music memorabilia and collectibles made them a perfect item for Deadheads to show their fandom.

Where is the best place to display my Grateful Dead pin collection?

Many collectors use pin boards or shadowbox frames to neatly display their pins on a wall. Corkboards and soft felt also work well. Display cases help protect the pins from dust and damage.

How can I tell if a Grateful Dead pin is vintage or modern?

Vintage pins from the ‘80s and ‘90s will show some natural wear and aging. Modern pins tend to have more colors and dimension. The pin backs and posts also look more aged on vintage pins.

What's the best way to store my pins when not displaying them?

Pin storage books, soft foam sheets, and zippered bags help keep pins safe and organized. Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

How do I clean tarnish or rust off an enamel pin?

Use a gentle polishing cloth or jewelry cleaning solution meant for silver or delicate metals. Avoid submerging the pin in liquid. Go slowly and carefully to preserve the enamel coating.