A Treasure Trove of Canadian Olympic Memorabilia at Heffel’s Auction
Fans of Canada’s Olympic team are in for a treat as Heffel Fine Art Auction House has introduced a unique opportunity to own a piece of Olympic history. The auction, recently launched, features an impressive array of Canadian Olympic memorabilia that is bound to excite collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.
Celebrating Athletic Heritage with Signature Jackets
At the forefront of this online auction are various Team Canada podium jackets, each signed by renowned Olympians and medallists. These jackets not only symbolize athletic achievement but also offer a personal connection to the athletes who wore them. Such items carry stories of dedication and determination, making them significant mementos for fans and collectors.
Historical Pieces from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics
The auction also includes flag and torch bearer uniforms from the 2010 Olympics held in Vancouver. This event marked a historical moment for Canada, and owning pieces from this era is invaluable. One can also find a jacket made for the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing the evolution of Team Canada’s sportswear over the decades.
Hudson’s Bay Company’s Rich Design Legacy
During its 16-year tenure as Team Canada’s official outfitter, Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) crafted many of the items up for auction. While the Olympic and Commonwealth Games pieces highlight significant athletic events, there’s a historical tie to the brand’s legacy. The Commonwealth Games jacket, for instance, was made by Zellers, a department store absorbed by HBC in 1978.
The Auction’s Broader Context
HBC, the oldest company in Canada, filed for creditor protection last year, prompting the need to auction off a trove of 4,400 pieces of art and artifacts. This initiative aims to generate funds for creditors and reduce the company’s financial burdens. Heffel has already held a live auction and continues to host an ongoing series of online auctions throughout the year.
Beyond Olympic Memorabilia: A Diverse Collection
The auction is not solely focused on Olympic treasures. It also features an impressive selection of fine art as well as historical pieces. Works by artists such as Max Ackermann and Kuba Bryzgalski can be found alongside a framed reproduction of the 1670 charter forming HBC, which was recently purchased for an astounding $18 million by notable Canadian families.
Fun Finds: Barbies and Vintage Items Galore
Among the collectibles, there are whimsical items like the Barbie collection featuring Zellers and various themed Barbies. There’s even a bear version of the Zellers mascot, Zeddy. These fun additions provide a lighthearted component to the auction, appealing to a broader range of nostalgia seekers.
Items Reflecting HBC’s Heritage
Many of the auction items hark back to HBC’s roots as a fur trading company. This includes fur grading lab coats and unique top hats made from mink and beaver. Other historical artifacts include handwritten buyer’s notebooks and a letter opener from the original Governor and Company of Adventurers of England, shedding light on the company’s storied past.
Nostalgic Department Store Memorabilia
Items from HBC’s department store days are also making an appearance, featuring a wedding dress from 1928, classic dinnerware sets, and even old calendars the company distributed from 1913 to 1970. Each piece carries a nostalgia that resonates with Canadians familiar with HBC’s long-standing presence in retail.
From Accessible Prices to High-End Valuations
The auction is rich with diversity in pricing. While some items like teddy bears start as low as $25, others, including Olympic jackets and fine art, are valued in the hundreds or even thousands. This spectrum allows both casual collectors and serious investors to engage with the auction in ways that suit their interests and budgets.
Anticipation Around Auction Outcomes
Heffel Fine Art Auction House is known for assigning conservative estimates, which are often beaten when bidding starts. The auction, expected to wrap up on February 19, promises excitement as participants vie for items representing a tapestry of Canadian history, culture, and athletic achievement.
Whether you are an avid Olympic fan, a collector of fine art, or simply looking to own a piece of history, this auction offers a unique window into Canada’s rich heritage through its diverse offerings.