Winter Games Pin Appraisal

1988 Calgary Winter Olympics Commemorative Pin

This is a two-part commemorative lapel pin produced for the XV Olympic Winter Games held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in 1988. The pin is constructed from a gold-toned base metal, likely brass or a similar alloy, utilizing a hard enamel or cloisonné finish for the colored sections. The top portion features the 'Star' logo, a stylized 5-pointed star composed of horizontal lines in a red-to-black gradient, representing dynamic movement. Suspended from the star via interlocking Olympic rings is a second, oval-shaped charm. This lower charm displays a golden polar bear silhouette - a nod to the Canadian Arctic - set against a dark blue background with concentric circular gold fine-line detailing suggesting a sun or target. The overall construction shows high-quality craftsmanship typical of officially licensed 1980s Olympic memorabilia, characterized by crisp metal dividers and smooth enamel filling. The condition appears excellent with no visible chips to the enamel, though minor surface scratches and slight oxidation on the gold-toned edges are present, consistent with an item over 35 years old. The pin utilizes a standard clutch-back attachment mechanism. This piece is a classic example of late 20th-century sports philately and souvenirs, highly sought after by Olympic pin collectors.