An extra large stiff plastic sleeve with brass bar pin on the reverse holds stiff 3x3-5/8” card bearing the inscription. The item comes with a photocopy of a one-page article by John Henigan which appeared years ago in Harvey Goldberg’s Kennedy Political Item Collectors newsletter. The article, in condensed detail here, explains the first organizational meeting for “Operation Kennedy” was held in the family’s Palm Beach home on April 1, 1959. Those present were Joseph P. Kennedy, JFK, RFK, Ted Sorrenson, Stephen Smith, Lou Harris, Larry O’Brien and Kenneth O’Donnell. The article further states that on October 28, 1959, a second organizational meeting was held at Robert Kennedy’s home in Hyannisport. It says in addition to those at the April meeting were Ted Kennedy, John Bailey, Hy Raskin and Pierre Salinger. The article concludes “Thus, On October 28, 1959, Plans Were Officially Launched For ‘Operation Kennedy’ – The Campaign To Put JFK In The White House.” The article includes a photo of this badge. Although we can’t say for a fact it was used precisely on October 28, 1959, it certainly was used at least very shortly thereafter and we personally do not know of any earlier Kennedy campaign badge. Badge has 2 tiny bumps at the top of the letter “K” caused by the reverse bar pin but overall condition is N. Mint and the piece displays Mint. A very historic Kennedy item and the first example we’ve been able to offer.