Sports lapel pins have long been cherished as symbols of team pride, memorable events, and personal achievements. For collectors, these small but significant items are more than just decorative accessories—they are pieces of history, encapsulating the spirit of competition and the passion of fans. Over the years, certain sports lapel pins have become rare and highly sought after, making them valuable additions to any collection.
Collecting sports lapel pins is a rewarding hobby that offers a connection to the rich history of sports, from iconic moments in major tournaments to the legacies of beloved teams and athletes. However, with the wide variety of pins available, it can be challenging to identify which ones are truly rare and valuable. In this article, we will explore the top 5 rare and valuable sports lapel pins that every collector should know about. These pins are not only prized for their scarcity but also for their historical significance and the stories they tell.
1. 1936 Berlin Olympics Lapel Pin
The 1936 Berlin Olympics, often referred to as the “Nazi Olympics,” is one of the most historically significant sporting events of the 20th century. Held during a time of intense political tension and global unrest, the Berlin Olympics were used by Adolf Hitler’s regime as a propaganda tool to promote the ideals of Nazi Germany. Despite this, the games are perhaps best remembered for the remarkable achievements of African American athlete Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals and defied the Nazi ideology of racial superiority.
The official lapel pins from the 1936 Berlin Olympics are rare and highly sought after by collectors. These pins were distributed to athletes, officials, and dignitaries, making them unique souvenirs from a controversial and historically significant event.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Historical Significance: The 1936 Berlin Olympics lapel pins represent a pivotal moment in sports history, where politics and athletics intersected on the world stage. The games are remembered for Jesse Owens’ victories, which challenged Nazi propaganda, making these pins symbols of resilience and triumph.
- Scarcity: Due to their age and the limited number of pins produced, genuine 1936 Berlin Olympics lapel pins are extremely rare. The scarcity of these pins, combined with their historical importance, makes them highly valuable to collectors.
- Design: The design of the 1936 Berlin Olympics lapel pin typically features the Olympic rings, the German eagle, and the swastika, reflecting the political climate of the time. Despite the controversial imagery, the pin is a significant artifact of the era.
Collectors interested in acquiring a 1936 Berlin Olympics lapel pin should be aware of the potential for counterfeits due to the pin’s value. Authenticating the pin through reputable dealers and verifying its provenance is crucial to ensuring its authenticity.
2. 1992 Dream Team USA Basketball Lapel Pin
The 1992 U.S. men’s Olympic basketball team, famously known as the “Dream Team,” is widely regarded as the greatest basketball team ever assembled. Comprised of NBA legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Charles Barkley, the Dream Team dominated the competition at the Barcelona Olympics, winning the gold medal with ease. The team’s performance not only cemented their place in sports history but also helped to globalize the game of basketball.
Lapel pins featuring the Dream Team are highly collectible, especially those issued during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. These pins are prized for their association with one of the most iconic teams in sports history and the role they played in elevating basketball to a global sport.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Iconic Team: The 1992 Dream Team is legendary in the world of basketball, and anything associated with the team is highly sought after by collectors. The team’s dominance and star-studded roster make their lapel pins especially desirable.
- Limited Edition: Many of the Dream Team lapel pins were produced in limited quantities, making them rare collectibles. Pins that were distributed to team members, officials, or VIPs are particularly valuable.
- Cultural Impact: The Dream Team had a profound impact on the popularity of basketball worldwide. Collecting a Dream Team lapel pin is not just about owning a piece of sports memorabilia—it’s about owning a piece of cultural history.
Collectors should look for lapel pins that were officially licensed by the U.S. Olympic Committee or the NBA. Pins featuring the likenesses of the Dream Team players or the official 1992 Olympics logo are especially valuable.
3. 1956 Melbourne Olympics Boxing Lapel Pin
The 1956 Melbourne Olympics marked the first time the Olympic Games were held in the Southern Hemisphere. Among the many memorable moments from these games was the boxing competition, which featured some of the most promising young fighters of the era, including future legends like Floyd Patterson and Laszlo Papp.
Lapel pins from the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, particularly those related to the boxing events, are rare and highly prized by collectors. These pins are not only valuable for their connection to the Olympic Games but also for their association with the sport of boxing during a golden age.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Olympic History: The 1956 Melbourne Olympics were significant for being the first Olympic Games held outside of Europe or North America. Lapel pins from these games are rare and represent a milestone in Olympic history.
- Boxing Legends: The boxing events at the 1956 Olympics featured several fighters who would go on to become legends in the sport. Lapel pins associated with these events are particularly valuable to collectors of boxing memorabilia.
- Design and Rarity: The design of the 1956 Melbourne Olympics lapel pins is often intricate, featuring symbols of the host country, such as the Southern Cross constellation. The rarity of these pins, combined with their historical significance, makes them highly sought after.
When collecting 1956 Melbourne Olympics lapel pins, it’s important to verify their authenticity, as there are few surviving examples. Pins that were issued to athletes or officials involved in the boxing events are especially valuable.
4. 1972 Munich Olympics Israeli Team Memorial Lapel Pin
The 1972 Munich Olympics are remembered not only for the athletic achievements but also for the tragic terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 11 members of the Israeli Olympic team. The event, known as the Munich Massacre, shocked the world and left a lasting impact on the Olympic movement.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, several memorial lapel pins were created to honor the victims and commemorate the Israeli team’s participation in the Munich Olympics. These pins are rare and hold deep emotional and historical significance.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Commemorative Significance: The 1972 Munich Olympics Israeli team memorial lapel pins were created to honor the memory of the athletes who lost their lives in the terrorist attack. These pins are highly valued for their role in commemorating a tragic event in Olympic history.
- Emotional Impact: Collecting a memorial lapel pin is not just about owning a piece of sports memorabilia—it’s about preserving the memory of the athletes and the impact of the Munich Massacre on the world.
- Rarity: Due to the limited production and specific purpose of these memorial lapel pins, they are rare and highly sought after by collectors, particularly those with an interest in Olympic history or Israeli sports history.
Collectors interested in acquiring a 1972 Munich Olympics Israeli team memorial lapel pin should approach the purchase with care, as these pins are both valuable and emotionally significant. Authenticating the pin through reputable sources is essential.
5. Super Bowl I Lapel Pin
The Super Bowl is the pinnacle of American football, and the inaugural game, Super Bowl I, held on January 15, 1967, between the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs, is one of the most significant events in sports history. The game marked the beginning of what would become one of the most-watched and celebrated sporting events in the world.
Lapel pins from Super Bowl I are incredibly rare and highly prized by collectors. These pins are not only valuable for their connection to the first Super Bowl but also for their association with the legendary players and teams that participated in the game.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Historical Significance: Super Bowl I was the first championship game of the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL), marking the beginning of the modern NFL era. Lapel pins from this game are highly sought after for their historical importance.
- Rarity: Super Bowl I lapel pins were produced in limited quantities and distributed primarily to players, coaches, and VIPs. The scarcity of these pins, combined with their connection to a landmark event in sports history, makes them extremely valuable.
- Connection to Legendary Teams: The Green Bay Packers, led by coach Vince Lombardi, and the Kansas City Chiefs, coached by Hank Stram, are both legendary teams in NFL history. A lapel pin from Super Bowl I is a symbol of the legacy of these iconic teams.
Collectors should be aware that due to the rarity and value of Super Bowl I lapel pins, they are often targeted by counterfeiters. Ensuring the authenticity of the pin through expert appraisal or purchasing from reputable dealers is crucial.
Tips for Collecting Rare and Valuable Sports Lapel Pins
Collecting rare and valuable sports lapel pins can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, but it requires knowledge, patience, and a discerning eye. Here are some tips to help you build a valuable collection of sports lapel pins:
1. Research and Educate Yourself
Before purchasing any sports lapel pin, it’s essential to do your research. Learn about the history of the pin, its significance, and its rarity. Understanding the context in which the pin was produced and the factors that contribute to its value will help you make informed decisions.
- Collector Guides: Invest in collector guides or reference books that provide detailed information about sports lapel pins, including images, descriptions, and historical context.
- Online Resources: Use online resources, such as collector forums, auction sites, and sports memorabilia websites, to gather information and connect with other collectors.
- Historical Context: Understanding the historical context of the event or team associated with the lapel pin can enhance your appreciation of its significance and value.
2. Verify Authenticity
Given the prevalence of fake lapel pins in the market, verifying the authenticity of a pin is crucial. Always purchase from reputable dealers or sources that can provide proof of authenticity.
- Certificates of Authenticity: Look for lapel pins that come with a certificate of authenticity from a reputable source, such as the original manufacturer or a recognized authentication service.
- Expert Appraisal: If you’re unsure about the authenticity of a lapel pin, consider having it appraised by an expert in sports memorabilia.
- Provenance: When possible, obtain information about the provenance of the lapel pin, including its history of ownership and how it was acquired.
3. Focus on Condition
The condition of a lapel pin plays a significant role in its value. Pins in mint or near-mint condition are generally more valuable than those with visible wear, damage, or missing parts.
- Mint Condition: A lapel pin in mint condition will have no visible flaws, scratches, or discoloration. The enamel should be intact, and the metal should have a consistent finish.
- Original Packaging: Lapel pins that come with their original packaging, such as presentation boxes or cards, are often more valuable than those without.
- Restoration: Be cautious of lapel pins that have been restored or repaired, as this can affect their value. In some cases, restoration may be acceptable, but it’s important to be aware of any alterations.
4. Build Relationships with Reputable Dealers
Building relationships with reputable dealers and collectors can be invaluable when collecting rare and valuable sports lapel pins. Trusted dealers can provide guidance, offer access to exclusive pins, and help you avoid counterfeit items.
- Networking: Attend sports memorabilia shows, auctions, and collector events to meet other collectors and dealers. Networking can open up opportunities to acquire rare pins and learn from experienced collectors.
- Dealer Reputation: Choose dealers with a proven track record of selling authentic sports memorabilia. Check reviews, ask for references, and verify their credentials.
- Exclusive Access: Reputable dealers often have access to limited edition or rare lapel pins that may not be available to the general public. Building a relationship with a trusted dealer can give you access to these exclusive items.
5. Preserve and Display Your Collection
Proper preservation and display of your sports lapel pin collection are essential to maintaining its value and ensuring its longevity. Lapel pins can be susceptible to damage from environmental factors, so taking steps to protect them is important.
- Storage: Store your lapel pins in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Use acid-free storage materials to prevent tarnishing and discoloration.
- Display Cases: Consider using display cases or frames to showcase your lapel pins. Display cases with glass fronts can protect the pins from dust and handling while allowing you to enjoy and display your collection.
- Handling: When handling your lapel pins, use gloves or clean hands to avoid transferring oils and dirt onto the pins. Avoid excessive handling, as this can cause wear and tear.
Building a Valuable Collection of Sports Lapel Pins
Collecting rare and valuable sports lapel pins is a hobby that combines a love of sports with an appreciation for history, art, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, understanding the significance of these pins, their rarity, and their value is key to building a meaningful and valuable collection.
By focusing on historically significant pins, verifying authenticity, and preserving your collection with care, you can create a collection that not only brings you joy but also serves as a valuable investment. The top 5 rare and valuable sports lapel pins highlighted in this article are just a starting point—there are countless other pins waiting to be discovered and appreciated by collectors like you.
As you continue your journey in collecting sports lapel pins, remember that each pin tells a story, whether it’s of a legendary team, a historic event, or a personal achievement. By adding these rare and valuable pins to your collection, you’re not just acquiring memorabilia—you’re preserving the legacy of sports for future generations to enjoy. If you are interested in ordering some high-quality lapel pins, feel free to call us at our Toll free number 1-877-513-4811 or fill out one of our FREE QUOTE FORMS.
