Antique Celluloid Photo Young Girl in Bonnet Columbia Portrait Co. Chicago

Celluloid photo buttons are collectible items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These items, also referred to as medallions or pinbacks, consist of a photograph and a paper mat wrapped around a metal backing and covered with a protective layer of celluloid plastic. The plastic film gives the photo a glossy finish and helps to protect it. 

The practice of creating photo buttons became popular around 1890s, with a peak in popularity around 1910. While many celluloid buttons were produced for political campaigns and advertising, family portraits like the one shown in the image were more likely to be kept as heirlooms. Some photo buttons, particularly larger ones, were designed to be hung on a wall or displayed on a stand.