Fans and collectors of Olympics-related souvenirs such as coins
and stamps have flocked to the 13th World Olympic Collectors Fair
which opened in Beijing on Saturday.
Visitors from numerous countries are expected at the six-day
fair which showcases more than a century of treasures representing
the various stages of the Olympic movement.
Items likely to be shown will include Olympic torches, trophies
and athlete suits, as well as pins, coins, stamps and other items
bearing the Olympic rings.
It is the first time the fair has been held in China and is free
to the public.
In addition, the Chinese Sport Stamps Collectors' Association
will simultaneously host an exhibition at the recommendation of the
International Olympic Committee.
Olympics-related stamps personally donated by Juan Antonio
Samaranch, IOC Honorary President for Life and Chairman of the
Olympic Philately, Numismatics and Memorabilia Commission, will be
also be shown at the stamp exhibition.
Samaranch is also slated to attend the Opening Ceremony of the
Collectors' Fair on June 24.
(CRI June 24, 2007)
