People Love Collecting Special Pins at Milan Olympics

A fun hunt for special Olympic pins is happening in Milan. People are searching for unique pins to collect. It's a popular activity during the games.
By Newsroom | Olympics, Milan |

A spirited hunt for collectible pins has emerged as a popular pursuit during the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, drawing significant attention from enthusiasts and casual observers alike. The phenomenon, dubbed 'Pindemonium,' has seen dedicated collectors descend upon Milan, engaging in a daily race to acquire limited-edition memorabilia. This intense activity highlights a growing interest in Olympic collectibles, turning the games into a multi-faceted event beyond athletic competition.

'Pindemonium' sweeps Winter Olympics as collectors go treasure hunting - 1

Context of the Phenomenon

The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics have become the backdrop for an enthusiastic wave of Olympic pin collecting. Official trading centers have been established in Milan to facilitate the exchange of these small, symbolic items.

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  • The distribution of official pins is often tied to a daily "treasure hunt," where locations are revealed via social media.

  • The Instagram account @visit_milano posts daily clues at 8:00 a.m., leading participants to distribution points that open at 12:00 p.m.

  • These pins are typically offered for free, one per person, and are available only while supplies last.

  • An alternative for those unable to participate in the daily hunt is purchasing pins from official stores for €12 each.

  • Some collectors employ specific strategies, such as forming teams and developing systems to ensure they are among the first in line for the limited free releases.

Collector Behavior and Strategies

Collectors are exhibiting a high level of engagement, with many employing organized tactics to secure coveted pins. The pursuit of these items often begins early in the morning, relying on real-time information.

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  • Individuals have been observed waiting outside metro stations, attentively checking their phones for location updates revealed on Instagram.

  • The urgency to acquire pins is palpable, with one collector, Biondi, stating, "All the pins I can find, I will take."

  • Pasqua, a collector experiencing her first Olympic memorabilia hunt, described stuffing newly acquired pins into her coat to avoid unwanted trades.

  • Some participants are known to purchase older or less common pins from online platforms like eBay to supplement their collections.

The Tradition of Pin Trading

Olympic pin trading is presented as a long-standing tradition that fosters connection and provides a tangible memento of the games. This practice is not limited to spectators; athletes themselves are also integrated into the culture.

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  • Pin trading is described as a way for athletes, staff, and fans to interact and take home a piece of the event.

  • Samsung smartphones provided to athletes in the Olympic Village include a preloaded pin-trading game, encouraging participation.

  • An unspoken etiquette is associated with pin trading, suggesting a set of informal rules that govern the activity.

  • The practice is characterized as a wholesome, universally accessible "sport" that has garnered significant enthusiasm.

Monetary and Social Value

While many pins are distributed for free or purchased at a modest price, the collector's market indicates a perceived value that extends beyond their nominal cost. The pursuit itself carries social and personal significance for participants.

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  • The "treasure hunt" initiative aims to encourage exploration of Milan, merging tourism with collecting.

  • One collector highlights the personal satisfaction: "And you take a little treasure with you home every day, so it's fun."

  • Owning award-winning collections of vintage Olympic pins, such as those from the London Olympics, suggests a long-term dedication and potential appreciation in value.

Expert Insights

The widespread enthusiasm for Olympic pin collecting is viewed as a natural extension of the traditional fan experience.

"Olympic pin trading is the tradition of athletes, staff, and fans swapping collectible pins as a fun and friendly way to connect and take home a little piece of the event." - WomensHealthMag.com

"YesMilano has launched a really fun initiative that will drive collectors crazy. A 'treasure hunt' that will allow everyone, tourists and residents alike, to discover the city." - Milanosegreta.co

Conclusion and Implications

The "Pindemonium" gripping Milan underscores the significant cultural and economic role that collectible items play during major international events like the Olympics. The organized nature of the pursuit, coupled with the social interactions it engenders, points to a robust and engaged collector community. The integration of digital platforms like Instagram in revealing locations and the provision of pin-trading games on athlete devices demonstrate how contemporary technology is enhancing these traditions. This phenomenon not only provides a unique way for attendees to engage with the games but also serves as a powerful, albeit informal, economic driver through the purchase and trade of memorabilia. Future Olympic events may further leverage such initiatives to deepen fan engagement and promote host city exploration.

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Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the pin collecting game at the Milan Olympics?
It's a fun hunt where people search for special, limited-edition Olympic pins. Many are given away for free.
Q: How can I find the free pins?
You need to check the @visit_milano Instagram account at 8:00 a.m. for clues to find where they are given out at 12:00 p.m.
Q: What if I can't find the free pins?
You can buy some pins from official stores for €12 each.
Q: Why do people collect these pins?
It's a fun tradition to connect with others and have a small souvenir from the Olympic Games. Some people also hope they will be worth more money later.