If you’ve ever summited a peak in the United States, you might recognize the little metal tag to the right.
The U.S. Geological Survey has affixed these buttons atop mountain peaks throughout the United States. Each “bench mark” is stamped with the name of the peak and its elevation above sea level.
Occasionally, very bad mountain climbers will pry the tags off as souvenirs for having summited. But now there is a much better alternative. GeoSitu.com prints pewter replicas of the bench marks. Those who have conquered a particular peak can then go online to purchase a memento of their accomplishment. Pretty cool!
The Mt. Rainier example above is 3.25 inches in diameter and costs $34.95. It’s a little pricey, but hey, it’s better than stealing!