This is about pin-back buttons with wording or pictures on them. There are other guides covering clutch-back pins (think Olympic or Disney pins) or clothing buttons (sewn on to shirts). Though most pin-back buttons are round (2 1/4 inches across), they can come in other sizes & shapes. There are many colors & designs. Their popularity has gone up & down over the years. Pin-back buttons are probably most commonly associated with political campaigns. There are several guides on Ebay that discuss them. Pin-back buttons have also been created for marketing campaigns, places, events, organizations, and staff recognitions. Most may never have much value, while others have become extremely collectable & are highly prized. Many pin-back buttons have been listed & sold on Ebay. There is a pinback category under collectibles, but button subcategories can be found in several other areas on Ebay. Buttons are also sold amongst movie & sporting memorabilia, Disneyana, & collegiate fanwear.

Helpful hints for to increase the likelihood of your buttons selling:

• Always post a picture of the item. This is a great way for others to identify the button.
• What is the button for? Is it for a political campaign? a NASA mission? an amusement park? a tourist destination? an Olympic event or venue? for staff at a Scout training event? for a church usher? Be specific as possible in the title, listing description, & item category. Take some time to study out how similiar buttons in that category are listed, as well as priced out. That is how I learned to sell on Ebay. Some particular collecting areas use specific terms & abbreviations to identify & classify buttons.
• Describe the button's specifics in the listing description: shape (round, rectangle, etc.), size (measured dimensions), colors, wording (especially names & dates), and any unusual characteristics.
• Almost all buttons are going to be in some sort of used condition, but if is mint condition (such as being sealed in a bag after being printed) be sure to mention it. Be accurate about the description, especially the part most unseen: the back (is it rusting?). Listing the condition helps all buyers in making a proper bidding or purchasing decision & may prevent some confusion upon receiving the button.
• Remember to point out safety! Pin-back buttons are sharp & can cause injury, especially if there is not a clasping lock in the back or the pin sticks out beyonds the edge of the button.

Have fun & good luck!