From the olive branch to the Eiffel Tower, the evolution of Olympic medals 

The Olympic Games represent the pinnacle of sporting success and a celebration of human excellence. At the heart of this celebration are the Olympic medals, symbols of victory and perseverance. On the occasion of the Games of the 33rd Olympiad of the modern era in Paris, La Monnaie de Paris is highlighting the art and history of these precious objects through a captivating exhibition. Let's dive into this rich history together!

An Exhibition at La Monnaie de Paris

La Monnaie de Paris presents an exhibition retracing the history of Olympic medals from 1896 to the present day. This exhibition, D'or, d'argent et de bronze, recounts the moments of victory and reward through objects, images and archives. A selection of sports medal tools, created by Béatrice Coullaré, is also presented. These pieces allow artists to freely express their vision of gesture and effort.

Evolution of medals

• 1896, Athens: Winners received a silver medal and a diploma, runners-up a copper medal
• 1900, Paris: Awards varied, including works of art and trophies
• 1928: Giuseppe Cassioli standardized the design of Olympic medals, depicting the goddess of victory, Niké, holding a palm in her right hand and a crown in her left.
• 1972, Munich: Medals include elements specific to the host country
• 2004, Athens: Niké flying in the Panathinaiko stadium is depicted

The Eiffel Tower in the Paris 2024 Medals

For Paris 2024, a bold idea was implemented: incorporating metal from the Eiffel Tower into the medals. This unique project symbolizes the fusion of two icons: the Olympic medal and Paris' most emblematic monument.

In the mid-twentieth century, modernization work on the Eiffel Tower led to the removal of certain metal parts. These pieces have been carefully preserved and are now part of the Paris 2024 medals. Chaumet, renowned for its jewellery expertise, was chosen to carry out this project. Each medal will be adorned with a piece of iron from the Eiffel Tower, set like a precious stone, recalling Gustave Eiffel's legacy.

Practical information

The D'or, d'argent et de bronze exhibition runs from March 27 to November 3, 2024, and is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 6pm (with late-night opening on Wednesdays until 9pm).

Please note, however, that the exhibition will be closed on July 25 and 26 to coincide with the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.

Monnaie de Paris

11, quai de Conti, 75006 Paris
Museum admission: 12 euros (free from July 18 to 24)

Reservations are essential. For further information, please email: reservations-groupes@monnaiedeparis.fr