Why Do Enamel Pins Tarnish? Care Tips for Collectors
By Mondo | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Tips & Care
Learn why enamel pins tarnish and how to prevent it. This guide covers causes, cleaning methods, and storage tips to keep your collection looking its best.
Quick answer
Enamel pins tarnish mainly due to moisture, air exposure, and oils from handling. You can prevent tarnish by storing pins in a dry, sealed container and cleaning them gently with a soft cloth.
What causes tarnish on enamel pins?
Tarnish is a chemical reaction between the metal base of a pin and elements in the environment. Most enamel pins use a base metal like brass or nickel, which can oxidize when exposed to humidity, sweat, or even the natural oils on your skin. Over time, this creates a dull, discolored layer on the metal parts of the pin.
Soft enamel pins, like the Mondo Full Metal Jacket Enamel Pin or the A Goofy Movie – "Hi, Dad" Enamel Pin, have recessed enamel areas that expose more metal edges. These edges are especially prone to tarnish because they are in direct contact with air and moisture.
Prevention is easier than restoration
Once tarnish sets in, it can be difficult to remove without damaging the enamel or the pin's finish. The best strategy is to prevent tarnish from forming in the first place. This means controlling the storage environment and handling pins with clean, dry hands.
For display, consider using a pin display board or case that protects pins from dust and humidity. Avoid storing pins in direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade the enamel colors over time.
Diagnosis: Is your pin tarnished?
- Symptom: The metal parts of the pin look dull, discolored, or have a greenish or brownish film. The enamel may still look vibrant, but the metal has lost its shine.
- Likely cause: Exposure to moisture, humidity, skin oils, or airborne pollutants. Pins stored in open air or worn frequently without cleaning are most affected. Check your storage area for humidity levels above 50% and consider using silica gel packets.
- Corrective action: Gently wipe the metal parts with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For stubborn tarnish, lightly dampen the cloth with water (do not soak the pin) and wipe carefully. Avoid abrasive cleaners, polish, or soaking the pin, as these can damage the enamel or the metal finish. If the tarnish does not come off with a dry cloth, stop and do not use chemical cleaners. The pin may have a plated finish that can be worn away.
- When to stop or choose another option: If the pin has a plated finish (common on shiny silver nickel pins like the Back to the Future – 2015 License Plate Enamel Pin), polishing can strip the plating. In that case, accept the patina or consider replacing the pin. For valuable collectibles, consult a professional conservator. For future purchases, consider pins with black dyed metal or dark finishes that show tarnish less.
Back to the Future – 2015 License Plate Enamel Pin
Products to consider
- Full Metal Jacket Enamel Pin: This collectible enamel pin is crafted on black dyed metal with two posts and rubber clutch backings for secure attachment. The black dyed metal finish helps reduce visible tarnish compared to bare metal, and the double posts keep the pin stable on your bag or jacket, minimizing movement that can cause wear.
Full Metal Jacket Enamel Pin - A Goofy Movie – "Hi, Dad" Enamel Pin: This 1-inch soft enamel pin features a single post on black dyed metal with a rubber clutch backing. Soft enamel pins have exposed metal areas between color sections, so they are more susceptible to tarnish. The black dyed metal here provides a darker base that can make early tarnish less noticeable.
