I know that Keith Haring (1958 – 1990) produced versions of this button early on at his Pop Shop in Soho (opened 1986 at 292 Lafayette Street), but I believe unsigned ones like this were made just a bit earlier, and given out as party favors at his "Party of Life" birthday events--at the Paradise Garage (1984) and the Palladium (1985 & 86). (Source: Gallery 98, http://gallery.98bowery.com.) A pretty rare and iconic thing, and quite a piece of history on many fronts. I found this one along with an original pink triangle pin and a 1983 Christopher Street Liberation Day pin (the predecessor to the Gay Pride Parade), clearly collected by someone who was very much part of the scene.
1 inch in diameter. Light surface wear to the face and some rusting to the back, but overall good condition, bright and clear.
*Among the events at the first Party of Life, Madonna debuted two songs from her upcoming Like A Virgin; at the second, Boy George sang Happy Birthday:)
