Trophy History

All of us are familiar with youth sports trophies, retirement plaques, and metal loving cups. We’ve seen the Olympic medals presented to the winners on the stands. And we are familiar with the famous trophies like the Stanley Cup. But have you ever stopped to think where these modern trophies and awards had their origins? Who started this tradition, anyway?

Ancient Greece

The roots of the modern Olympic medals can be traced to the early Greek athletes who performed at original Olympic games. Legend has it that these early champions were rewarded with laurel wreaths and olive branches to symbolize triumph and victory. It seems like the importance of bragging rights goes way back. It probably goes back to prehistoric hunting successes.

The Middle Ages

Knights and nobles who participated in events were rewarded with more permanent and elaborate trophies. Winners were given actual gold or silver trophies or more practical items like swords and shields to display as part of their accomplishments of skill.

The Industrial Revolution

With advancements in manufacturing techniques, more elaborate trophies designs came about at the same time the costs dropped. Trophy cups in less expensive materials could be made and gold plating for a fraction of the cost of actual gold cups. Also, with more leisure time, more people could participate in sporting events, so trophies became more and more common. These trends continued into modern times where plastics and mass production made trophies and awards more common. What has not changed is the symbolism of a trophy for accomplishing something important. Bragging rights continue to be important.