AP pins are released throughout the year.
During the last couple years there have been one in each quarter, and also one spanning the year.
AP pins are also often available in conjunction with special events like Flower and Garden or the opening of an attraction.
Like any limited edition pin, the AP pins sell out. Depending on the theme, they may sell out very quickly. However, it is rate that there isn't a single AP pin available anywhere.
Usually, AP pins are available at one key shop in each park:
Expo Hall at MK, Epcot Pin Central at Epcot, Island Mercantile at AK, and the Hat at MGM. Island Mercantile generally sells out last.
Special event AP pins are usually only available at a specific place and time within the event area.
You will always have to present your AP to purchase an AP pin, and there is usually a limit (which varies, depending on the pin) per passholder, per day.
For some AP pin promotions, your pass will be stamped so that you cannot buy that specific pin again.
About once per year, there has been a free pin or lanyard available to passholders. These will <i>fly</i> out of the stores!
Hope this helps.
