Abstract: A method of assembly and activation of a reusable self-expiring Security Identification Badge is provided. The Badge includes a base substrate having a void indicia area. Also included is an ink substrate having an expired indicia area of a soluble ink and an adhesive surface. Also included is an overlay substrate having an ink dissolver and a display surface. When the Security I.D. Badge is issued, the inked substrate is attached to the base substrate, the inked substrate covering the void indicia area. The overlay substrate is then placed over and attached to the inked substrate, the ink dissolver in contact with the soluble ink of the ink substrate. The ink dissolver of the overlay substrate contacts and coacts with the soluble ink of the inked substrate to dissolve the ink and allow the ink to migrate through to the overlay substrate to the display surface, where it can be visually perceived, in a preselected time interval.