eBay

This offer is for a sterling silver tie tack or lapel pin in the shape of a detailed early hot air balloon. The pin appears to be vintage, but is not dated. The design of the balloon is similar to illustrations of the Montgolfier balloons. The word "MONTGOLFIER" is printed across the widest part of the balloon, although some letters are not visible because they are intersected by the vertical balloon ropes. The pin measures about one inch tall and 1/2 inch wide (at the widest point), and the post is about 6/16th of an inch long. The maker's information on the back of the pin is difficult to read: "STERL..." and "©" and some additional lettering that cannot be deciphered. A modern silver-toned metal ball top locking pin back is included.

Background From Wikipedia - "The Montgolfier brothers, Joseph-Michel Montgolfier (1740–1810) and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier (1745–1799) were aviation pioneers, balloonists and paper manufacturers from the commune Annonay in Ardèche, France. They invented the Montgolfière-style hot air balloon, which launched the first confirmed piloted ascent by humans in 1783, carrying Jacques-Étienne. Étienne Montgolfier was the first human to lift off the Earth in a balloon, making a tethered test flight from the yard of the Réveillon workshop circa October 1783."

Condition Details - The pin has very light surface wear, but no significant scratches or other damage, and the post is not bent. The pin is as-found and was not polished for the pictures.

I never use stock photos. The item pictured is the item you'll receive, and it will be packed with care.