2016 RIO SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES TORCH WITH ORIGINAL BOX

This 2016 Rio Summer Olympics torch was used in the flame relay. The following, referenced from a July 9, 2015 DisegnoDaily.com article, goes into detail on the design, aesthetics and relay from the Rio Games:

“São Paulo-based Chelles & Hayashi designed the 2016 Olympic torch with an introduction of moving components: when the torch is ignited, five segments automatically expand vertically to reveal brightly colored resin sections, each symbolizing a different natural element. The torch is made from two materials: recycled aluminum and resin. It measures 63.5 cm when contracted and 69 cm when expanded, and weighs around 1.5 lbs. As well as representing the colors of the Brazilian flag, each of the resin segments symbolize natural elements native to Brazil. The segments start with a deep, dark blue which represents the ‘floor’, its wavy shape inspired by the curvature of Copacabana’s shoreline, and then graduates to a lighter blue representing the sea, then green for Brazil’s mountains and valleys and, finally, the yellow of the sun. The torch features a grip embellished with a triangular pattern to aid the torchbearers handle during the relay. The triangular design also represents the three professed values of the Olympics: friendship, respect and excellence. The flame will be carried by 12,000 torchbearers through 300 towns and cities in Brazil, a journey that lasts 100 days and culminates on August 5, 2016 at the Olympic opening ceremonies in Rio de Janeiro.”

The creatively designed torch exhibits obvious signs of combustion near the top burner section. The white shaft and handle indicate light handling with few scratches or marks. Unlike others we have listed at auction, this one has an brown leather-like, oval-shaped sticker/grip affixed to the shaft emblazoned with the Rio Games logo and a facsimile signature of an important Brazilian dignitary (we can't recognize the name); affixed to this sticker/grip is a Rio 2016 Official Merchandise hologram (U6XF26E). The torch comes with its original brown carrying bag and is housed within its original brown presentation tube branded with the Rio Games logo.

Note: With the spring design of the torch, these presentation tubes are difficult to close, and this one is missing one of its lids. The latch to extend the torch to its capacity and reveal its colorful design is located within the lower base.