Scarce commemorative silver oar that was presented as a participation gift to all competitors in the rowing events at the London 1908 Summer Olympics. Produced by Elkington & Co., the miniature oar, 14 gm, 152 mm in length, is engraved on the blade area, “Olympic Regatta, 1908, Henley-on-Thames,” and the reverse of the shaft is marked “60.” Includes its original red leather presentation case. In fine condition, with light wear to the original case.
This rare participant souvenir is referenced in both the official report of the London 1908 Summer Games and in an article in the August 1908 issue of Baily's Magazine of Sports & Pastimes, which reads, in part: ‘Over thirty crews and scullers from England, Canada, Belgium, Holland, Italy, Hungary, and Germany will be striving for supremacy at Henley simultaneously with this month's issue of Baily. An extended course of about 1 ½ miles has been provided by the A.R.A. whose arrangements generally are on the most elaborate scale. All the visiting crews will be lavishly entertained while a souvenir in the form of a silver oar is to be presented to every competitor. Inscribed on the blade will be ‘Olympic Regatta 1908 Henley on Thames.’ The meeting is quite the most important ever held in the history of the sport.’
