Pin trading at Walt Disney World isn’t new. Since the early 2000s, guests have exchanged themed metal pins with cast members and other fans across the resort. The system was designed to be simple: trade a Disney pin, get a Disney pin. But recent experiences suggest it’s no longer that straightforward.
A growing number of collectors now believe the trading ecosystem has been quietly overwhelmed by counterfeit pins—often called “scrappers”—and Disney isn’t doing much to stop it.
Guests who engage with trading boards and cast member lanyards are noticing flaws that weren’t common in the past. Pins are appearing with off-model colors, uneven surfaces, misspelled words, and incorrect copyright stamps. For many, it’s not just the occasional oddity—it’s frequent enough to feel systemic.
A Shift in the Trading Landscape
These pins aren’t officially produced by Disney, though they often mimic authentic designs. Most originate from third-party sellers who manufacture them in bulk and resell them cheaply online. Platforms like eBay and Amazon are filled with listings offering dozens of “Disney” pins for under $20—a price that, to longtime collectors, signals trouble.
Once purchased, these pins often find their way into the parks through guest trades. Cast members, who are generally instructed to accept trades regardless of authenticity, add them to pin boards or lanyards. That opens the door for other guests to unknowingly receive them.
Unlike merchandise sold directly by Disney, pins in the trading system aren’t inspected. While some cast members with knowledge of pin trading may informally guide guests toward better-quality options, there’s no company-wide effort to remove fakes once they’re introduced.
The Signs Guests Are Learning to Spot
Collectors are now taking it upon themselves to identify counterfeits. One of the most reliable indicators is quality. Authentic Disney pins have a smooth, finished feel. Scrappers may feel rough or lighter than expected, with uneven enamel or paint that bleeds past the intended lines.
Back stamps are another clue. Genuine pins usually include consistent, clearly printed logos and copyright years. Fakes may feature fuzzy text, missing serial numbers, or outdated information that doesn’t match the pin’s design.
Online databases like PinPics have become essential tools, allowing collectors to cross-check their pins against verified listings. If a design doesn’t appear or has known counterfeit variants, it raises a red flag.
While some guests may not mind receiving a flawed pin, others feel the prevalence of scrappers undermines the core appeal of trading. The experience is meant to be rewarding—not an exercise in quality control.
So far, Disney has not implemented any formal strategy to filter or flag inauthentic pins. For now, collectors are left to rely on their own research, instincts, and a small but vocal online community determined to preserve the integrity of the hobby.
Do you think there’s been an increase in fake pins at Walt Disney World Resort?
Who cares if they’re scrappers or overpriced Disney pins. If someone likes it and wants to take it on a trade, more power. No one will retire on the worth of collecting Disney pins.