WWII-era Vintage Sweetheart Pin | Naval Ship VB42

This vintage WWII sweetheart pin bears an enameled red, white, and blue navy ship and measures just shy of 1 inch. The piece is authentic, as it was purchased through the Ohio Valley Military Society.

This piece has been restored as close as possible to its original condition, cleaned gently by hand with steam, polishing cloths, and good old-fashioned elbow grease.

This vintage item is approximately 70 years old and has been loved and cherished by a previous owner, there will be some slight wear or imperfections. If there is any noticeable wear or defect, it will be mentioned here: small nicks in the white enameling, as pictured.

Sweetheart jewelry was a token of affection from a service member originally given to their sweetheart. This tradition started in WWI, but became increasingly more popular during World War II era (1939-1945), as cloth was rationed as part of the war effort. As a result,  clothing was unadorned and simple. Wearing a sweetheart brooch, bracelet or necklace not only served as a connection to a loved one who was fighting overseas, but gave the wearer a sense of style. Sweetheart jewelry expanded to all relations, including wife, girlfriend, mothers and sisters.