AI Appraisal Estimate

This item appears to be a small commemorative lapel pin, stylistically consistent with official merchandise from the XXVI Olympiad. The pin features a metal base with a gold-tone finish and enamel-like coloring in dark green and blue. It is shaped like the state of Georgia, with a blue banner overlay reading "1996 OLYMPIC GAMES" and a circular gold-trimmed logo containing the phrase "ATLANTA 1996" surrounding the five Olympic rings and a torch. The pin is presented on its original white cardboard backing, which bears several printed marks including "IMPRINTED PRODUCTS CORPORATION" and "OFFICIAL LICENSED PRODUCT OF THE ATLANTA COMMITTEE FOR THE OLYMPIC GAMES, INC." At the bottom right, it features the text "Atlanta 1996" and a copyright mark reading "TM, © 1992 ACOG". The owner describes the item as "like new", which is consistent with the visible condition; the enamel appears smooth without significant chips, and the backing card shows only minor softening of the corners. While the markings suggest it is an official 1990s-era souvenir, the item remains unauthenticated without physical inspection to verify the metal composition and the legitimacy of the manufacturer's stamps. The design is characteristic of the mass-produced memorabilia ubiquitous during the 1996 Atlanta games.

Based on the provided imagery, the item appears to be a mass-produced commemorative lapel pin consistent with licensed merchandise from the XXVI Olympiad. The pin features markings attributed to the Imprinted Products Corporation and reflects the 1996 Atlanta games. From what I can see, the 'like new' condition suggests the enamel and gold-tone finish have been well-preserved, which is common for items kept on their backing card. I cannot verify the specific metal alloy or the legitimacy of the manufacturer's stamps from a photo alone; physical inspection is required to ensure these are not later reproductions or unauthorized copies. The value of $5 to $15 is representative of the general market for mid-tier Olympic ephemera. While these items were produced in high volumes, collectors specifically seek out examples with intact backing cards and minimal oxidation. If this piece were found to be a modern reproduction or lacked the specific licensing marks, its value would likely drop below $2. Conversely, if it were part of a rare limited-edition run—something impossible to confirm without matching serial numbers or provenance documentation—the value might slightly increase. To firmly establish these details, an in-person examination by a sports memorabilia specialist and verification of the gold-tone plating thickness would be necessary. Overall, the market for 1990s Olympic pins remains stable due to high supply, with prices driven primarily by the visual condition and the presence of the original packaging.