Parade of Nations (1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games Commemorative Plate)
Decorative art, commemorative collector plate • Produced by Hallmark (under license from ACOG); design attributed to the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games (ACOG) design team
Style & Movement
Contemporary Commercial Graphics / Olympic Memorabilia
Medium & Technique
Transfer-printed porcelain (ceramic) with metallic gold-tone rim gilding
Creation Period
circa 1992-1996
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter; circular tondo format
Subject Description
Centrally features the 'Centennial Torch' logo of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics over a stylized globe with latitude/longitude lines. The border depicts a 'Parade of Nations' represented by various national flags including Canada, Cuba, Germany, Norway, USA, Brazil, Tanzania, and Australia. Text includes 'Atlanta 1996' and the '100' Olympic rings designation.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; shows light surface wear consistent with age and storage
Estimated Market Value
$10 - $25 USD
Auction Estimate
$5 - $15 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced commercial collectible; typically sold through Hallmark retail stores in the mid-1990s as part of the Olympic sponsorship merchandise
Art Historical Significance
Significant as a piece of Olympic history representing the Centennial Games in Atlanta. While not a unique fine art piece, it serves as a cultural artifact documenting the 100th anniversary of the modern Olympic movement and the corporate branding strategies of the 1990s.
Notable Features
Includes the 'TM, © 1992 ACOG' trademark line; features distinctive 1990s graphic design aesthetics and the specific 'Blaze' torch logo meant to symbolize the Olympic flame and a star.
Condition Issues
Visible minor surface scuffs, small localized stains/spots on the white porcelain ground, and possible light wear to the gold-leaf rim. Adhesive residue present from an old price tag.
Conservation Recommendations
Clean with a soft, non-abrasive damp cloth; avoid chemical cleaners that may strip the gilding or transfer print. Display on a plate stand away from direct UV light to prevent fading of the red and blue pigments.
Collector Notes
hallmArk parade of nations