Clover Trove
Learn the history—and worth— of 4-H Club mementos.
Nothing says “summer in the country” quite like a county or state fair. And for many, the fair and 4-H are synonymous. If 4-H was a part of your childhood, your own ribbons, annual pins or trophies could be the basis for a meaningful collection. How many of these pieces do you recognize?
1 Patch
The now-iconic four-leaf clover emblem was first introduced in 1911. It has an “H” on each leaf, representing head, heart, hands and health. The 2½-inch felt shield pictured could be sewn on a hat, jacket or sweater, and is from around 1950.
Worth: $5-$15
2 National Songbook
The 4-H Preservation Program notes that singing has been an integral part of 4-H almost from the start, whether in a club meeting, at camp or during the fair. This edition from 1938 contains a variety of patriotic, religious and popular tunes, as well as some music written specifically for 4-H. The paperback copy measures about 6 inches by 9 inches and includes the 4-H pledge on its back cover. Worth: $7-$15, depending on condition
3 Gavel
4-H offers leadership training through many avenues, such as holding office. A club president learns how to run a successful meeting, which includes the proper use of a gavel. The one pictured, from the 1950s, appears to be walnut and measures 8½ inches long, with an unengraved plaque adjacent to its clover emblem. Worth: $10-$25
4 Trophy
This Grand Champion trophy cup was awarded in 1953 at a 4-H dairy show in Indiana. The manufacturer, Dodge Inc., was also partly responsible at one time for one of the world’s most recognizable trophies—the Oscar. Vintage trophies have become extremely popular collectibles, increasing their worth. This one is brass-plated and measures approximately 9½ inches tall. Worth: $25-$100
5 Achievement Pins
Members of 4-H can earn achievement pins in many ways—completing another year of membership, serving as an officer or finishing a project. While pins generally are readily available to collectors, be sure to check the metal content; those made of sterling silver or solid
gold will have more than sentimental value. Pictured from left: Annual Recognition, ThirdYear pin; Junior Leadership pin; Ninth-Year Member pin; Consumer Education project pin in original box.
Worth: $3-$20 each, possibly higher for solid gold
6 Lamb Club Sign
4-H members can choose from a variety of annual projects, including care of farm and domestic animals. While this handmade sign doesn’t specifically say 4-H, its wording gives a clue: local clubs often chose their name by identifying their location and listing a project emphasis. This circa 1970 sign would also appeal to collectors of farm signs and folk art. Worth: $35-$60