On the other side of the Atlantic from Wall Street, there’s a market in Paris that’s all about trading pins. It’s a friendly and exciting market where collectors from around the globe gather to grow their Olympic pin collections and share their experiences.
Craig Robbins, a dedicated pin collector from Los Angeles, believes that trading is an inherent human trait. He says, “People are wired to trade. In life, if you cannot exchange, you die.” Even a Starbucks barista at the Palais des Congrès, the main press center for the Olympics, asks journalists if they have any pins.
The pin-trading craze in Paris has reached new heights this year, with everyone from Olympic volunteers to tourists on the lookout for these coveted accessories. French pin collector Laurent Facy notes, “You can really feel the craze this year.”
The tradition of pin trading dates back to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, where athletes, coaches, and reporters wore little cardboard badges for identification. Over the years, these badges have transformed into intricate and detailed pins representing countries, news organizations, brands, and individuals.
The pin craze really took off during the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, where a variety of pins were introduced, including media, sponsor, athlete, and mascot pins. This trend continued in Paris 2024, following two Olympics without spectators due to the pandemic. Social media and the participation of Olympians like Serena Williams and Andy Murray have further fueled the popularity of pin trading.
One of the most sought-after pins at the Paris Olympics is Snoop Dogg’s, featuring the rapper blowing smoke in the shape of the Olympic rings. This unique pin has attracted interest from both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.
What makes pin trading so appealing is its inclusivity and accessibility. Unlike official Olympic events held in stadiums, pin trading can happen anywhere and even online. Participants simply need to wear clothes adorned with pins to join in the fun. The colorful displays of pins worn by traders often spark conversations and connections among enthusiasts and curious onlookers.
Paul Ians, an American visitor and pin collector, emphasizes that pin trading is not just about interacting with other collectors but also about meeting people from all walks of life attending the Olympics. Each pin carries a story, and through trading, people become storytellers, sharing pieces of their unique Olympic experiences.
In essence, pin trading serves as a bridge between individuals, creating opportunities for meaningful encounters and exchanges. It’s a tradition that brings people together through shared stories and shared passion.