These long hatpins were popular from the early 1900's to around the 1930's. This one is 9 1/2 inches long and the decorative N&W button end has a circumference of 3 inches. The back reads Roanoke V, A. L. Cohn.

The Norfolk & Western Railway headquartered in Roanoke, Virginia, for most of its existence, between 1838 and 1982. During the Civil War, the N&W was the biggest railroad in the south and moved most of the products with their steam locomotives to help the South. Today N&W items are highly collected.

As for the condition, the actual pin does have some corrosion and needs to be cleaned. Button end could also use a polish but it hasn't been touched. Slight bend in the pin as it has been used.

Don't hesitate to email with questions.

Alley Cats Vintage is a Member of the Vintage Fashion Guild.