Chinese Mao Zedong Circular Lapel Pin

Fiery sunburst rays and a line of stamped characters over a tiny gate.

This Mao Zedong circular lapel pin is from China, and dates to the 20th century. It is metal. Badges and lapel pins bearing Mao's face were produced by the billions, and Mao himself called a halt to production in 1969 because the metal used was seen as wasteful. Fine, sharp rays burst from behind a silver left-facing head against a bright red field. Below the shoulder, a short line of gold characters curves over a tiny gate building at the base. The finish is bright and even. It is 1.5 inches in diameter.

The rays are so straight they could be ruled.