SCP Auctions, Inc.
Timed Auction

2022 FALL PREMIER AUCTION

Wed, Nov 23, 2022 09:00PM EST - Sun, Dec 11, 2022 09:35AM EST
Lot 448

1980 Moscow Summer Olympic Games Torch

Sold for
$704.40
Sold Price includes BP

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$30,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000
$200,000 $25,000
$500,000 $50,000
$1,000,000 $100,000
$1,500,000 $150,000

Presented here is a torch from the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, the first Games hosted by a communist country. The location combined with the Soviet Union's ongoing war in Afghanistan resulted in more than 65 nations boycotting the Olympics, including the United States at the insistence of President Jimmy Carter. It was perhaps remembered more for those athletes who did NOT participate. A few athletes from the boycotting nations did participate, with allegiance to the Olympic flag instead of their home country. In retaliation, the Soviet Union boycotted the subsequent 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles.

The lovely gray and gold torch is made of painted and spun anodized alloy and features the 1980 Summer Olympics logo on the protective handle cover as well as "MOCKBA OLIMPIADA 1980" (Moscow Olympics 1980) on the exterior. The 1980 Olympic torch relay was conducted entirely on foot. Torchbearers carried the torch during the 30-day torch relay through Bulgaria and Romania to Moscow, covering a final distance of 4,976 kilometers. The torch measures 22" long (56 cm) with the upper round platform having a diameter of 4" (10 cm). Signs of combustion around the flame opening indicate that it was likely used in th relay. The shaft and other areas show moderate wear, but it remains fairly well-preserved.

Payment for your invoice must clear in full prior to shipping. All items will be shipped from SCP Auctions’ Laguna Niguel, CA office in the order that payments are received. Please allow up to three business days following clearance of payment for items to ship. All items will be shipped UPS/FedEx Ground unless you contact us to discuss an alternative shipping method. If you would like your items shipped in a different method, such as UPS/FedEx Next Day or UPSFedEx 2-Day, you must contact our Post Sale Services Manager Veronica Rodriguez by emailing customerservice@scpauctions.com to discuss alternative shipping instructions. Prior to bidding, please be aware of estimated shipping costs, especially for large or heavy lots. You may contact SCP Auctions for any shipping estimates lots you are bidding on or interested in bidding on. If you intend to pick up your items in person at the SCP Auctions office, please call us to schedule. Payment must clear prior to items being available for pick-up.