Disney continues to release new pins all the time . These pins highlight everything from characters to attractions to food and beyond . PHOTO BY LAURIE SAPP
Trading Pins , Fandom , and Conversation with Cast Members
BY RAIN BLANKEN
Are you new to Disney Pin Trading , or have you crept deep into the full-denim-vest-full-of-pinbling stage ? Whether you ’ re just wondering what the fuss is about or have a dedicated closet for your many lanyards , Disney always has something new around the corner for pin traders .
WHERE TO BUY PINS Most merchandise stores around WDW carry official Disney Pin Trading pins . Many pin traders start by purchasing a lanyard to show off both the pins they want to trade and those priceless keepers . Starter packs ($ 25 to $ 30 ) at WDW include a lanyard and a handful of pins , depending on the set .
You can also buy pins online , but you have to make sure they are authentic . Sites like eBay are notorious for selling knockoff pins . Only pins with Disney , Disneyland , Disney Cruise Line , and Walt Disney World Resort affiliation are accepted by Cast Members to trade . Look for pins with Mickey heads stamped all over the back as an indicator of authenticity ( but even these aren ’ t always the real deal ). Pins from other business units of the Walt Disney World Company , like ESPN , are acceptable .
TYPES OF PINS Pins can represent your favorite resorts , attractions , and characters — even retired favorites like Robot SMRT-1 from the CommuniCore Center at EPCOT or the 2005 IllumiNations ( R . I . P .) Magical Gathering Book pin that our own Danny McBride has in his collection . But not all pins are created equal . You ’ ll notice a price range at WDW shops : Simple starter sets will have a selection of small pins inside , but individually sold pins can spin , open up , have A 2005 IllumiNations Magical dangling parts , or even be as
Gathering Book pin . big as your hand .
PHOTO BY DANNY MCBRIDE
Hardcore pin traders know to hit up the shops early at events . Anniversary and holiday events often feature special pins that