The pin you are referring to, AK Continuing the Tradition is not an award pin from a CM. It is an LE 500 pin that was part of the Animal Kingdom special event from last month. You paid the $100+ to go to the event, and you were given the pin.
Regarding the regular Continuing the Tradition 2002 pins, I tend to agree with you with one exception. Being presented the pin is definitely the thrill, but there are many collectors for a whole variety of reasons (financial, location, scared of flying, etc..) that can not go to WDW.
Ebay might be their only way to add this pin to their collection.
My 2 cents
- david