Presented here is Luz Long’s official 1936 Berlin Olympic Games participant’s badge for the sport of Track and Field. The German jumping sensational competed in both Men’s Long Jump and Triple Jump at these Summer Games on his home turf. Of course, he placed second in the long jump behind Jesse Owens before coming in tenth in the triple jump.
The badge has a pierced design of the Olympic rings and the historic Bradenberg Gate, Berlin’s famous Greek revival building erected in 1791, with “XL Olympiade Berlin 1936” inscribed. Made of bronze, the metallic section measures 41 by 46 mm at its widest and longest points. It comes with an attached orange ribbon inscribed “Leicht-athletik” (Athletics in German). Each athlete participation badge, regardless of sport, is uniquely numbered. Long received number “391”. The ribbon remains fully intact with just slightly frayed ends on one side. Brooch on reverse is intact with the maker (“L. Chr. Lauer Nurnberg-Berlin”) hallmarked. Overall, it is very well-preserved and comes in outstanding condition.
Considering the heroics of Jesse Owens at the 1936 Summer Olympics, an Athletics participant’s badge is highly coveted among collectors. This one belonged to the Buckeye Bullet’s top contender in Men’s Long Jump, whose courageous act of sportsmanship ultimately cost the blonde-haired German his spot atop the podium.
Includes a letter of provenance from the Long family. Also included is a letter of authenticity from Olympic memorabilia expert Ingrid O'Neil.