At first glance, these most important awards in the world of sports seem to be full of such a valuable metal. However, the reality can be surprising.
These awards are still a symbol of the highest sporting achievement and the dream of every athlete, as well as an object of desire for many collectors. However, contrary to popular belief, they are not made of pure gold.
The last Olympic awards made exclusively of this precious metal were awarded in Stockholm in 1912. Currently, in accordance with the regulations of the International Olympic Committee, they are mainly made of 0.925 silver. Only then is it covered with a thin layer of 24-karat gold.
At the 2024 Paris Games, the gold medals will consist of 523 g of gold-plated silver. The silver medals contain 525 g of silver, and the bronze medals are composed of an alloy of tin and zinc.
Regardless, gold medals are the ultimate symbol of sporting recognition. Their emotional, historical and market value is unmatched by anything else. They are also works of art, the result of advanced technology and craftsmanship.
Each medal is a unique object that combines tradition and modernity, symbolising both the achievements of athletes and the rich history of the Games.
Silver Olympic medals from the first modern games in Athens in 1896 have sold for $180,000 and $112,000. Medals won by famous athletes such as Jesse Owens command even higher prices. His gold medal from the 1936 games in Berlin sold in 2013 for almost $1.5 million.
