An element of distinction (3)

I believe the answer is:

tin

'an element' is the definition.
(tin is a kind of element)

'of distinction' is the wordplay.
'of' indicates a hidden word.
'TIN' is hidden within 'distinction'.

(Other definitions for tin that I've seen before include "Silvery-white metallic element" , "Silver-white metal, used to make cans" , "Money" , "Silvery-white metal used in cans" , "A silvery-white metal often in cans" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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