Collecting Celluloid Photo Medallions

This is a compendium of Celluloid Photo Medallions, also known as Photographic Buttons”, “Mourning Photo Medallions” , “Art-Floral Medallions”, “Panel Portraits”, “Celluloid Button Photos”, and/or “Plaques” of various types. They were quite popular from just before the turn of the twentieth century up through the Second World War. People would commission them, utilizing photographs of their loved ones, either alive or departed, themselves, beloved pets, or of religious figures. The photograph would be added to a border chosen from stock samples provided by a representative or salesman from one of the manufacturing companies. Once the border was decided upon, the medallion would be produced to the customer’s specifications. Primarily, these medallions were used to commemorate special occasions such as births, weddings, military service, citizenship, religious icons and celebrations, membership in fraternal organizations, and very often deaths. These lovely medallions are prized not only for their subject matter but for the beauty of the borders surrounding them. In addition to the history, manufacture, and care/maintenance of these photo medallions, a value guide is provided. Collectors of all the subject matters listed in the book as well as those interested in art and photography will appreciate these gems of a bygone era.