WWII SWEETHEART PINS

Once worn to signify devotion to someone in the service, these sparkly symbols are now coveted collectible war-era relics.

WWII sweetheart pins (or sometimes called victory pins) are ornate brooches or locket pins that soldiers would leave with loved ones when they deployed overseas to fight in the war. They were worn with pride to show support on the homefront, and while they were often gifted to wives and girlfriends (hence the “sweetheart”), it was also common for mothers and family members to don something similar to indicate their connection and loyalty to a serviceman.

Naturally, the aesthetic for these pins was patriotic – red, white, & blue, flags, eagle insignia – and some were simply an ornate and optimistic “V” for victory. Many also indicated the branch of military, such as Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or Air Force.

Given that it was wartime, the baubles were typically made from sterling silver or brass, sometimes crafted from wood or early plastics, like lucite or celluloid. They’re not considered fine jewelry, which means they’re affordable enough to actually collect – and feel comfortable wearing.

In a collection designed to celebrate a milestone anniversary of independence, we’d be remiss not to incorporate elements from such an integral chapter of the American story. We spent several months acquiring an assortment of these WWII pins to offer alongside Nu Patriot, and with the current trend of “jewelrification” (i.e. piling on the pins), it brings us pride to offer a sartorial salute to these bygone servicemen and their sweethearts.