26014

Circa 1888 Benjamin Harrison Miniature Felt Campa

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:170.00 USD Estimated At:250.00 - 350.00 USD
Circa 1888 Benjamin Harrison Miniature Felt Campa
<B>Circa 1888 Benjamin Harrison Miniature Felt Campaign Hat</B></I> This clever novelty is a miniature white felt hat with red, white and blue grosgrain ribbon hat band. Inside the crown is an approximately one inch albumen photograph of Benjamin Harrison. During the elections of 1888 and 1892, Republican supporters urged voters to reinstall another Harrison in the White House. Harrison's grandfather was William Henry Harrison, who wore a hat of this type. Slogans, such as "Grandfather's hat fits Ben..." or "The Same Old Hat," were seen on a variety of campaign items. This cute artifact measures 2 1/2" across x 1" high and rather resembles a planter's hat. While the full-sized top hats with Cleveland and Harrison portraits inside are quite familiar, this version is less so. Probably intended for suspension from some sort of hanger for wearing. The top side of the hat would normally be displayed, and someone could flip the hat over to see the candidate being supported by the wearer, making this item part of the genre of "mechanical" political badges which were quite popular in this era. Choice, virtually mint condition. Lot:260