March 2016 Auction Ends Thursday, March 31st, 5pm Pacific

Olympic Torch Used in the 1988 Seoul Summer Games

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/31/2016

Olympic relay torch used in the 1988 Summer Olympics. The Torch Relay tradition began in 1928 and transports a spark from the parent flame in Olympia, Greece to the host city, in this case Seoul, in time for the opening ceremonies. The torch was designed by Lee Woo-Sung of Korea Explosive Co. Ltd and took over two years with a staff of 156 people. The top of the torch is engraved with two dragons, symbolizing the harmony of East and West. The torch also bears the colorful Seoul logo with the Olympic rings beneath it. Korean traditions were incorporated in the making of the entire external appearance of the torch, including the unique brown sheath of the handle. The top of the handle reads: ''Games of the XXIVth Olympiad Seoul 1988'' in both English and Korean. The torch is made of brass, plastic and leather. Measures 20'' long with 4'' diameter burner and weighs 2 pounds. Wear from use includes various marks on middle section, bottom cap of handle is missing and bottom piece of leather has been taped. Overall very good condition.