Buttons are one of the more popular collectibles from political campaigns and buttons, as we know them now, were first popular in the mid-1890s. Now you can buy current buttons on the Internet by the gross. We've come a long way or have we?

Today some buttons can still be found for as low $1. or $2. at flea markets -- certainly an affordable start to a collection. At a recent flea market an assortment of interesting buttons was found ranging in price from $1. - $100. But even better is free from a candidate's campaign headquarters.

Buttons are a fascinating collection and one that can appeal to all lovers of history and Americana. But as in all collectibles, take time to learn more about the hobby before spending big bucks. Brummagem, jugate. trigate and ferrotypes are all terms to know when starting the button quest.

The APIC is a must place to both visit. The National Association of Political Hobbyist and Scholars has 3000+ members, and has been around since 1945. There are vast resources on the association website, specialty sub-chapters, periodicals and monthly newspapers for members.

Although not as plentiful as the buttons, other popular items from political campaigns would be banners, pictures, bandannas, bumper stickers, fans, pennants -- just name an item and some promoter was sure to have come up with it, emblazoned with a candidate name or slogan. One collectible that is new to the last few campaigns is the lowly mouse pad! Check these out for sure -- as I still think the mousepad could be a big collectible a few years from now.

Before plunking down money for any of the older collectibles, do a little research, check out the books or look at the different websites for more information. There is a wealth of information on the Internet just a few clicks away.