Disney Pin Trading

Pins, Pins, Pins.  No matter where you visit in Walt Disney World, you will be exposed to the whirlwind that is Pin Trading.  What is Pin Trading, you ask?   Pin Trading is one of the biggest crazes down in Disney World.  It is fun, interactive, and great for finding unique souvenirs.    By purchasing some Disney Pins and displaying them on a lanyard, you will opened yourself up to meeting new people and discovering a new hobby that you never knew you needed.  Trade with Cast Members or fellow visitors, like yourself.  And don’t forget to have fun!

Saving Money - Unfortunately, Pin Trading can get pretty expensive.   At Walt Disney World, most pins can be purchase for about $10-$15.  Some are more and a few are less.  You can also purchase sets for around $30-$40.  To make Pin Trading easier on the wallet, purchase your pins and lanyard from eBay prior to your trip.  Many bulk sellers list pins for as low as $1 each.  You don’t get to choose the pins you receive, but that just makes Pin Trading more fun.  Now you and your family can hunt the World for your favorite Character and Park pins.  We also purchased our lanyards on eBay for $1.50 each and we didn’t even pay shipping!

Following the Rules – As with everything in life, Pin Trading has a few easy rules to follow.  Only metal Disney pins with the ©Disney mark can be traded.  These pins also need to have a rubber Mickey Mouse back.  However, I have seen several exceptions to that rule at Disney Restaurants and stores.  In that case, you keep your back to use with your new pin and the cast member keeps your old pin minus the back.  Remember that you may only trade with each cast member twice, so make a good trade.  And watch out for those sharp points.  If not traded carefully, those cute pins might just get you.  It is always a good idea to put the back on your pin before handing it over.

Kids Only – In the Pin Trading world there are many cast members that will on trade with children ages 3-12.  At Walt Disney World, these cast members can be see with a green hip or neck lanyard.    I have also encountered a few cast members that push Disney Strollers covered in pins.  They also will only trade with children.  If you are a parent of young children, keep your eyes open for these cast members.  They usually have really cute pins!

Make Some Memories -   Once you get into Pin Trading you may realize that some pins are rarer than others.  You may feel the need to only trade for the more “valuable” pins, but in my opinion it is better to trade for what you love.  Disney pins are great reminders of what you and/or your children were most interested in that year.   Whether it is Fairies or Pirates, find your favorites and keep them as memories for years to come.