Gold, silver and bronze: discover the history of the Olympic medal at La Monnaie de Paris

They're about to become a hot topic of discussion the world over: the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, and especially the medals that reward the athletes, are attracting all eyes. Every country is cheering on its athletes, hoping that they will bring home as many medals as possible. Symbols of victory, medals are at the heart of every sports fan's preoccupations... And for the Monnaie de Paris.

The cultural institution is taking advantage of the Olympic Games to tell us all about the history of these Olympic medals, big and small. In a new exhibition, on show from March 27 to November 3, 2024, the museum explains everything there is to know about these very special awards. Discover the D'or, d'argent et de bronze exhibition now.

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At the first modern Games, in 1896, only the first two winners of an event received a medal: the first in silver, the second in copper. It wasn't until the 1904 Games that the three-medal system - gold, silver and bronze - was adopted. La Monnaie de Paris recounts this long history, while revealing the specific features of these awards.

Each edition of the Games has seen the emergence of its own design, making the medals unique - although they must comply with specific rules set down by the IOC.

The museum takes a look at each of these medals, including the first to be made at the Monnaie de Paris. But that's not all. The tour also explores the symbols behind these decorations, and the meaning they hold for athletes, companies and sports fans alike.

Summer or winter games, ecological considerations, symbols of victory and patriotism: every detail is thought out and adapted to the concerns of the time and the country. La Monnaie de Paris explains each evolution, while unveiling some astonishing historical pieces, such as posters, diplomas and objets d'art created for the Olympic Games.

A must-see exhibition, to help you appreciate the medals that will soon be won by our French athletes!