History of Trophies & Awards

History of Trophies & Awards

Trophies and awards have long symbolized human achievement, excellence, and recognition in various fields—from sports and academics to entertainment and military service. These symbols of success not only honor individual or team accomplishments but also serve as historical artifacts that reflect ...

04 Aug 2025

Trophies and awards have long symbolized human achievement, excellence, and recognition in various fields—from sports and academics to entertainment and military service. These symbols of success not only honor individual or team accomplishments but also serve as historical artifacts that reflect the evolution of culture and competition over time.

World Cup Trophy


First awarded in 1930 to the winners of the FIFA World Cup, the trophy is made of solid gold and stands at 36.8 centimeters tall. Initially known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, it was awarded until 1970, when Brazil won it for the third time and was allowed to keep it permanently. A new trophy was introduced in 1974, known as the FIFA World Cup Trophy, which is still used today. Its design depicts two human figures holding up the Earth, symbolizing global unity and the pinnacle of football excellence.


Olympic Gold Medal

The highest honor at the Olympic Games, the gold medal has been awarded since the first modern Olympics in Athens in 1896. It is made of silver with a 24-karat gold plating and measures 60 millimeters in diameter. Though the composition and design of the medals have evolved over the decades, they remain a symbol of the ultimate athletic achievement. Each host country customizes the design to reflect its culture, adding historical and artistic significance to every edition of the Games.


The Stanley Cup

Awarded annually to the National Hockey League (NHL) champion, the Stanley Cup is one of the oldest and most iconic trophies in professional sports. Donated in 1892 by Lord Stanley of Preston, the trophy has a unique tradition where each member of the winning team gets their name engraved on it. Unlike most trophies, the Stanley Cup is passed from champion to champion, carrying with it a legacy of over a century of ice hockey history.


The Nobel Prize Medal

Instituted by the will of Alfred Nobel in 1895, the Nobel Prizes honor outstanding contributions in fields such as Physics, Chemistry, Literature, Peace, Medicine, and Economic Sciences. The medals are made of 18-carat green gold and plated in 24-carat gold. Each medal features an image of Alfred Nobel and reflects the prestige and global significance of the award.


Academy Award (Oscar)

The Oscar statuette, awarded by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1929, is one of the most recognizable awards in the entertainment industry. It stands 13.5 inches tall and weighs around 8.5 pounds, made of a metal alloy called Britannia and coated in gold. The Oscar represents excellence in cinematic achievements and has become a symbol of success in the film world.