Are medals just glorified coins, or symbols of something far more profound?
Medals are more than mere metal discs. From ancient Roman political gifts to modern military decorations and religious tokens, these objects have evolved from currency-like tokens into complex symbols of status, heroism, and belonging. Discover the hidden history behind the awards we pin to our chests and display on our walls.
The term medal traces back to the post-classical Latin medalia, a coin worth half a denarius. While they share a lineage with currency—often struck using similar dies—medals serve vastly different functions. Historically, they acted as diplomatic gifts or personal tokens. By the Renaissance, the exchange of medals became a hallmark of Humanism, with scholars and princes commissioning bronze pieces to cement alliances. This era saw the rise of the 'medalist,' an artist dedicated to crafting these intricate objects, often featuring a portrait on the obverse and an emblem or motto on the reverse.
Military medals represent a distinct evolution. While Roman emperors issued phalerae for achievement, the modern practice of awarding medals to all combatants only solidified in the 19th century, notably with the British Waterloo Medal in 1815. Today, we distinguish between decorations, which recognize specific acts of heroism like the American Medal of Honor, and service awards, which mark participation in a campaign. Some decorations, like the French Légion d'honneur, function as orders, implying membership in an exclusive organization rather than just a singular honor.
Beyond the battlefield, medals permeate society. Devotional items like the Miraculous Medal, distributed to millions since 1832, highlight their religious significance. Fraternal organizations use 'jewels'—medals worn on collars or ribbons—to signify rank or membership. Meanwhile, 'table medals' like those awarded by the Nobel Foundation are designed for display rather than wear. Whether crafted from bronze, gold, or even plastic, these objects remain powerful tools for propaganda, commemoration, and personal identity, proving that a small piece of metal can carry the weight of an entire history.
Source: Medal
