Well, folks, we are halfway through the most exciting display of athleticism in the world.
For two weeks, the most impressive athletes travel from all over the globe to strut their stuff and make a name for their nation. The elite few will be awarded a gold, silver, or bronze medal. Because I’m a bullion fangirl, I was curious as to what the medals are composed of and what design was utilized. Not surprisingly, the Olympic medals have a rich history of their own.
The first Olympic Games are believed to have taken place in 776 B.C. While fighting between nations was prevalent during the time, an “Olympic Truce” was called during the Olympiad to ensure athletes could compete without fear of conflict. During the Ancient Olympics, victors received a laurel wreath as prize for their win. This continued until 393 AD when the Roman emperor put an end to the competition.
It wasn’t until 1896 when the games resumed in Athens. With the resurrection of the games came a few changes, including the progression to award champions with a medal. The 1896 and 1900 games awarded a laurel wreath and silver medal to the winner of each event. From 1904-1912, the first, second, and third place contenders received a pure gold, silver, and bronze medal.
In 1916, the Olympic games saw one more change when the solid gold medals once again were altered. Since 1916, gold medals are composed of 92.5% silver. Each medal is then plated with a minimum of 6 grams of gold.
Not only has the composition of the medals changed, but the design has transformed through the years. The original medals featured Zeus, alongside Nike-the goddess of Victory- on the obverse. The reverse displayed Acropolis. In 1928, the design changed to feature Nike holding a winner’s crown and a palm on the obverse, with a jubilant crowd carrying a champion on the reverse. This design remained until the 2004 Olympics in Athens when the obverse changed to feature Nike outside the Panathinaiko Stadium in Greece, with a reverse unique to the country hosting the games.
The Olympic awards have seen a great deal of change throughout the years; personally, I love the fact that the hosting country has the opportunity to design its own reverse as a tribute to their nation. What design is your favorite? Did it disappoint you to know the gold medals are no longer really gold medals? I wonder how much gold Michael Phelps will own by the time he retir
es…
Since the United States is leading the world in medals, let’s dedicate the item of the week to US bullion. You can pick up this solid gold 2016 1 oz American Eagle to diversify and add beauty to your portfolio, today.
Let me know what you think of the evolution of the medals and what event you’re most enjoying this year!
Happy Stacking!
-J
On average, what would a solid .999 fine gold medal weigh?
What is the precious metal content of the silver and bronze medals?
According to my research, a solid gold medal would consist of 500 grams of gold and would be worth over $21,000. Wow.
Silver medals are composed of 92.5% sterling silver and 7.5% copper. Bronze medals are made from copper, zinc, and tin and are only worth a few dollars.
-J
Women divers and women’s volleyball. Gee, I wonder why?
I saw the US women’s team destroy China yesterday court volleyball. It was epic. 😀
-J
For the most part, I’m sure the metal content is the least of their worries. Although, how awesome would it be if they were still pure gold? Gymnastic girls were untouchable!
I totally agree; I think it would be awesome if the medals were solid gold. Phelps would be an even richer man. And, the women’s gymnastics were on fire! So impressed with the Fierce Five!
-J