Its all about Medals, Medal Suppliers and Running Medals

Medals or medallions are a flat, round piece of metal that is worn as a souvenir, which has been awarded by the royalty, government and other institutes and organisations. Artists and artisans craft, mould and cast medals which are then marked with some signs, figures and inscription. Known references of medals are found in historic records as early as 4th century BC. Medals are given in recognition to the contributions and achievements in the fields of science, arts, military and academia. In past, only governments would make medals, but now many manufactures and medal supplier abound in the UK and world over.

The first word reference of the medal is found in 14th century English. The etymologists tell that it came from French into English from Latin word ‘Medalia’. The word Medalia had been derived either from Greek or old Latin. The features of medals include the main coin shaped structure, the ribbon hanging piece and the ribbon. The front side or the obverse side has some figure, inscription or symbol while the reverse side may be empty or have some details about the events, achievements or recipient’s information. Medals in antiquity were made with precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, bronze and gems. Now, cheap medals are made with iron, ivory, glass, wood, paper and plastic.

The earliest recorded evidence of medals is found in Jewish historians writing in Josephus Flavius. He told about a particular priest who aided Alexander the great, who in recognition of the service gave gold medal to the priest. Romans have their medals which were given to the monarchs, nobles and courtiers. With the Christian Roman Empire, the medals got religious significance. One instant of such medals were found in England, where in 7th century a medal associated with Saint Letard was given to converts. During Renaissance, in 14th and 15th century, nobles and priests would give medals to get goodwill and trust from other monarchs and nobles, it was also began to be given to courtiers who excelled in a particular fields. The fields and recipients grew in popularity and number. In 18th and 19th century medal making became a separate art form. With Olympics, the medals became synonymous with sports.

Medals are also given for military, academic, scientific, artistic and literary achievements. The British Victoria Cross is the highest military medal in the UK. It is given to the soldiers who show extraordinary bravery and courage in wars. Soon this practice of awarding military awards spread to other parts of the world including the US. The Nobel Prize also includes a gold medal.

Although, medals are found in almost all spheres of life but the sporting medals or the prize medals (running medals, swimming, athletics, football, hockey etc) are the most common and popular medals. Unlike the past, now the non-governmental organizations also award medals. There are thousands of commercial manufacturers and suppliers of medals in the UK and world over. Medal Centre is an online medal shop. You can get special packages on different medals. Medals are available for all major sports. Trophies and cups are also available at site. For more information visit the official website at medalcentre.com.

For more information visit us at : Medal Suppliers

For more information visit us at : Cheap Medals UK in gold, silver and bronze colours.