The History of Bad Omens Collectible Pins
Bad Omens have always had a strong visual identity, blending dark aesthetics with cryptic symbolism. Their first official pin releases coincided with the "Bad Omens" debut album era in 2016, featuring simple logo pins and iconic imagery like the cross and skull motifs. As the band's fanbase grew, so did the complexity of their pins, with intricate designs inspired by lyrical themes from songs like "The Worst in Me" and "Dethrone."
The release of "Finding God Before God Finds Me" (2019) marked a turning point. Pins began to incorporate more layered symbolism, such as the glass shards and burning church imagery from the album art. Limited edition runs for tour dates and special events became highly sought after, with each pin telling a story tied to that specific moment in the band's journey. The COVID-19 era saw a surge in online-exclusive drops, making pins a key way for fans to feel connected when live shows paused.
Types of Bad Omens Patches and Where to Place Them
Patches offer a different canvas for Bad Omens' artwork. You'll find woven and embroidered patches depicting album covers, song lyrics, and original mascots like the skeletal figure from "The Death of Peace of Mind." Back patches (roughly 10x12 inches) are perfect for denim jackets or vests, letting you center the band's signature logo or a full album scene. Smaller 3x4 inch patches work well on the chest or sleeve of a jacket, and iron-on patches are common for easier application on canvas bags or hats.
For maximum visibility, many collectors position their most prized patch on the back of a battle vest, with smaller complementary patches on the front pockets or collar. Some fans prefer to sew patches onto black jeans or the back panel of a hoodie. Avoid placing patches on areas that get heavy wear, like elbows or knees, to preserve the fabric. Stitching over iron-on adhesive is recommended for longevity, especially if you layer multiple patches.
How to Start Your Bad Omens Pin Collection
Starting a collection can be overwhelming given the variety of pins available. The most straightforward approach is to focus on a specific theme. Many collectors begin with pins that represent each studio album: a "Bad Omens" debut logo pin, a "Finding God" pin with the shattered cross, and a "The Death of Peace of Mind" pin featuring the clover or the band's new minimalist logo. This gives you a balanced foundation without needing every variant.
Another strategy is to collect pins by era. Early pins (2016-2018) often have a matte black finish with gold or silver accents, while later pins use vibrant enamel colors and glow-in-the-dark elements. Pay attention to the backing cards - official Bad Omens pins come with a holographic sticker or card confirming authenticity. Avoid pins sold without these markers unless you trust the seller. Joining fan-run Facebook groups or Discord servers can help you spot real vs. counterfeit pieces and learn about upcoming drops.
Displaying and Storing Your Bad Omens Collectibles
Protecting your collection is as important as acquiring it. Enamel pins can scratch each other, so avoid throwing them loose into a drawer. Use corkboards or fabric-covered display frames that allow you to pin them without damaging the enamel. If you want a more professional look, consider shadow boxes with shallow depth - they keep dust out while letting you arrange pins by color or theme. For patches, iron them onto felt backing before mounting in a frame to avoid creasing.
Climate matters. Keep your display away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of enamel colors and patch fabric. Humidity can cause rust on pin backs; silica gel packets in your storage case help. For traveling collectors, hard-shell pin cases with foam inserts are a solid investment. Some fans even keep their most valuable pins in a dedicated album with sleeves, treating them like trading cards. Rotate displayed pieces regularly to enjoy the full breadth of your collection.
Where to Find Rare and Limited Edition Pins
Rare Bad Omens pins often surface after major events like album release parties, anniversary tours, or collaborations with artists. The band's official webstore archives are a first step - check the "Sale" or "Archive" sections occasionally for returned stock. Sites like Etsy and eBay have dedicated Bad Omens collectors willing to trade or sell, but be cautious: ask for close-up photos of the pin back and the card. A pin from a specific tour date, such as the 2022 US co-headline with Dayseeker, is typically smaller runs of 100-300 units.
Another avenue is Reddit's r/BadOmensCommunity and Discord servers where members post want-lists and trade offers. Limited edition pins from special events like the "Concrete Jungle" singles tour can only be acquired secondhand, so building connections in the community is key. Also follow the band's Instagram for surprise drops - sometimes they release one-off pins to commemorate milestones, like 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Patience and persistence often yield the rarest finds.
FAQ
How can I tell if a Bad Omens pin is authentic? Official pins have a distinct weight and finish, typically with a rubber clutch backing stamped with the band's logo. The card includes a holographic authenticity sticker and the band's branding. If the price seems too good to be true or the seller has no history, request detailed photos of these features.
What is the best way to clean enamel pins? Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water to wipe the enamel surface. Avoid alcohol or abrasive cleaners as they can dull the finish. For deep crevices, a soft toothbrush works gently. Always dry the pin completely before storing.
Do Bad Omens ever re-release limited edition pins? Rarely. The band typically produces pins in a single run and does not restock. However, they sometimes include leftover stock from canceled tours in mystery boxes or limited sales. Following their newsletter is the best way to catch these opportunities.
