Official Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch replica

The first IOC-approved 3D Olympic torch replica is now available at the Beijing 2008 Olympic online store. The replica costs $500 and comes with a crystal base stand that features a laser-etched map of the route that the Olympic torch took this year. The torch is packed in an authentic silk brocade box which is the same kind of box that Chinese people use to store valuables in. [via]

But probably the coolest thing about this replica torch is that it is made from actual leftover steel used in the construction of the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest.