Up for sale is an exceptionally rare piece of sporting history – the official torch from the 1990 Beijing Asian Games (XI Asiad), held from September 22 to October 7, 1990. This was the first major international comprehensive sports event ever hosted by China, marking a historic milestone in the nation's modern development.
A Historic Artifact
The sacred flame for the 1990 Asian Games was lit by 15-year-old Tibetan girl Dawa Yangzong at the foot of Mount Nyainqentanglha in Tibet, using sunlight focused through a solar collector. The "Light of the Asian Games" torch relay traveled over 18,000 kilometers across 30 provinces, with more than 170 million people participating in the celebration. The opening ceremony flame was ultimately lit by Chinese sporting legends Xu Haifeng, Gao Min, and Zhang Rongfang.
Design & Craftsmanship
This torch features a distinctive torch-like shape with the iconic "Great Wall" emblem embedded at the top. The body is intricately engraved with traditional Chinese dragon and auspicious cloud motifs, while the top rim adopts the distinctive crenellation design of the Great Wall of China. The handle features a gold-plated finish with a coiled dragon design.
EXTREMELY RARE – Limited Quantity
Only 300 torches were ever produced – all donated to the XI Asiad Organizing Committee by Shenzhou Company on August 2, 1990 at a ceremony held in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The torch was developed in less than 100 days after foreign companies demanded $1,000 per torch with unreasonable conditions – China refused and built their own superior torch instead. Each torch performed flawlessly across complex terrains including plateaus, deserts, and tropical regions.
This is NOT a mass-produced replica or souvenir. This is a genuine, original event torch from one of the most significant sporting events in Asian history. Examples of this torch rarely appear on the market.
Included:
· 1990 Beijing Asian Games commemorative T-Shirt
Condition:
Please refer to photos for detailed condition. The torch shows expected signs of age consistent with a 35-year-old collectible.
Why This Matters:
The 1990 Beijing Asian Games was a watershed moment – the first time China hosted a major international multi-sport event. It marked China's emergence onto the world stage and ignited a wave of national pride that defined a generation. The torch is not just a sports artifact; it is a symbol of China's opening to the world.
Perfect for:
· Serious sports memorabilia collectors
· Asian Games / Olympic history enthusiasts
· Chinese history collectors
· Museum displays
· Investment-grade collectible
Shipping:
Will be carefully packaged and insured. International shipping available.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of Asian Games history!
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Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing. Sold as-is. Feel free to message with any questions.