1988 Skate America Pins: Another Maine Event.

Last Updated on September 7, 2024 by Netropolitan Museum

Unique shapes define the two event pins from an iconic competition

For the second time in three years, the city of Portland, Maine, played host to the international Skate America event, marking the official kick-off of the post-1988 Olympic season. Among the memorabilia from this event, the two 1988 Skate America pins stand out, each showcasing the familiar red and blue event pictogram—a pair team gliding effortlessly on an outside edge. The pins, although simple in design, are instantly recognizable for the event brand, which, unfortunately, was retired after 1992.

Pins Gallery: 1988 Skate America

The “Skate America” lettering on the two pins pays homage to the past, mimicking the style seen on the inaugural event pin from 1981. That competition was held in Lake Placid, New York.

The first version of the 1988 Skate America event pin boasts an unusual shape—a parallelogram with opposing rounded and angled corners. Note how the angle of the parallelogram cleverly mirrors the angle of the pictogram, demonstrating a keen attention to detail. The striking blue letters of “Skate America” stand out well against the silver background. Anchoring the pin at the center is the iconic pictogram and event name, with the year and location split above and below: “1988 Skate America Portland Maine.” The patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme dominates the design, with a blue border that neatly frames the pin, adding to its appeal. This version is crafted on a silver-colored base metal.

The second version of the event pin is a cut-out style in the shape of the state of Maine. It incorporates the same design elements as its sister pin but with gold used behind the “Skate America” letters instead of silver. The event location and year are worked into the design: “Portland Maine ’88.” A gold star denotes the location of Portland. This uniquely shaped pin, crafted on a gold-colored base, brings a geographical reference, making it unique in the field. The 1989 and 1990 Skate America events would likewise be commemorated with a cut-out style pin in the shape of the host state; 1989 being Indiana and 1990 being New York.

The 1988 Skate America Pins: Another Maine Event.

This blog was originally published at The Netropolitan Museum of Figure Skating Pins on February 4, 2023, and has been updated with an additional event pin and new and expanded information.

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