Lake Placid 1980 Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Soviet Union Player’s Silver Medal
The 1980 Lake Placid Olympics Silver Medal: A Testament to Hockey History
A Legendary Moment in Olympic History
The 1980 Lake Placid Olympics are forever etched in the annals of sports history, primarily due to the legendary ‘Miracle on Ice’ hockey match. This unforgettable event saw the underdog United States team triumph over the formidable Soviet Union with a thrilling 4-3 victory. This victory paved the way for the Americans to clinch the gold medal against Finland, marking a monumental achievement in the realm of ice hockey.
A Rare and Coveted Artifact
Among the treasures from these historic games is a stunning silver medal, one of only 74 issued at the Lake Placid Games. This rarity enhances its allure and desirability, especially as it was awarded for ice hockey, a sport that captivates audiences worldwide. Crafted by the renowned Tiffany and Co., this exquisite winner’s silver medal weighs approximately 214 grams, embodying both elegance and historical significance.
Design and Craftsmanship
The medal’s design is a testament to its era, with the back inscribed “XIII Olympic Winter Games,” showcasing a raised hand holding the Olympic torch against a majestic mountain backdrop, accompanied by the iconic Olympic rings. The reverse side, inscribed “Lake Placid 1980,” features a small emblem of the Lake Placid Games and a prominent pine branch with cones, with the sport elegantly engraved below, “Ice Hockey.” The bottom edge bears the inscription, “Tiffany & Co., Sterling Silver, 1979.”
- Exquisite Craftsmanship: Created by Tiffany and Co., a hallmark of quality and prestige.
- Historical Inscription: Features the XIII Olympic Winter Games and Lake Placid 1980 engravings.
- Unique Design: Includes a small bored hole for the original white-and-blue ribbon, which is included.
A Piece of Hockey Heritage
This silver medal is not just an artifact; it is a relic of hockey history. Despite minor surface condition issues and evidence of prior framing on the back, the medal displays beautifully, capturing the essence of a pivotal moment in sports history. Its significance is further amplified by its connection to the storied ‘Miracle on Ice’ and the subsequent triumphs of the Soviet Union and Sweden for the silver medal.
For enthusiasts and collectors, this medal represents an opportunity to own a piece of Olympic history, a symbol of the indomitable spirit and triumph of the human spirit on the ice. Explore more about such hockey memorabilia and other sports memorabilia auctions at Grey Flannel Auctions, where history and passion converge.
Whether you are looking to consign hockey jerseys or sell sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a platform for enthusiasts to connect with the rich legacy of sports history.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.