BOCOG will release a series of Olympic-endorsed souvenirs to greet the traditional Chinese Spring Festival on January 25, 2005.

Among the new souvenirs are two pins, with a limited issue of 10,000 pieces each. One is "Yingchun Lantern" (Welcome Spring Lantern) pin (serial number 000330), which is in the shape of traditional Chinese lantern and symbolizes joy and luck. The other is "Jinji Baochun" (Golden Rooster Crowing for Spring) pin (serial number 000329), which integrates the Chinese character "chun" (spring) into the Olympic logo. The pins are accompanied by greeting cards.

Another souvenir to be released is "Old Beijing Pen." The pen is in a traditional style of the ancient capital city and an exquisite piece for collection.

The Chinese Spring Festival falls on Feb. 10, 2005.

So far, BOCOG has released more than 300 Olympic-endorsed merchandises, including sportswear, pins and other metal products, craftwork and stationery. The souvenirs are currently available in 11 licensed shops in Beijing. For more information, please dial the toll-free customer service number at 8008100010.

Ten percent of the revenue from sales of the souvenirs will be used to fund the preparations for the Beijing Olympic Games.

(beijing-2008.org January 21, 2005)