Priceless Gold: The Increasing Value of Olympic Medals

Olympic medals have traditionally been symbols of athletes' dedication. However, with soaring prices of precious metals, these awards are now gaining substantial financial value. The Italian mint is crafting medals for the Milano Cortina Winter Games, featuring designs that symbolize individual and team efforts, and adapting to metal market trends.

The gleam of an Olympic medal has always been a shining testament to an athlete's hard work and dedication. Yet, with the recent surge in precious metal prices, these symbols of success now also carry substantial financial value.

As the Milano Cortina Winter Games approach, Italy's state mint, IPZS, is busy crafting medals anticipated to have nearly twice the financial worth of those used in the 2024 Paris Olympics. 'The medals are tangible rewards for intangible efforts,' stated Michele Sciscioli, Chief Executive of IPZS.

While solid gold medals became a relic of the past after 1912, today's gold medals are made from silver, layered with pure gold. The medals for 2026 will feature over $800 worth of gold. Meanwhile, silver and bronze medals continue to utilize sterling silver and pure copper. This year's record-setting prices for gold and silver add to the medals' allure.