Preliminary identification

Volvo Corporate Logo Lapel Pin, c. 1980s-1990s

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic rectangular die-struck lapel pin featuring the iconic Volvo wordmark in raised gold-tone metal. The design utilizes a stippled 'sandblast' background to provide a matte contrast against the polished, black-filled lettering.

Story

The name Volvo is derived from the Latin word 'volvere,' which literally translates to 'I roll'—a clever nod to the company's origins as a subsidiary of a ball-bearing manufacturer.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1927 in Gothenburg, Sweden, by Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson, Volvo was built on the philosophy that 'cars are driven by people.'

Condition & Value

The pin is in good vintage condition with the original butterfly clutch. There is some minor oxidation visible on the back and slight thinning of the gold plating on the sharpest edges, which is consistent with light use. The black enamel fill remains crisp and intact.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD