Medal

awards · history · metal art

What it is. A medal is a thin metal disc, usually round, with a design stamped or carved on both sides. They're small enough to hold in your hand and often show pictures, words, or symbols that tell a story.

Why people get them. Medals are given as awards for doing something amazing, like winning a sports competition, serving in the military, or achieving something brave. They're like certificates made of metal that you can keep forever.

How they're made. Medals are created by striking metal with special stamps called dies, kind of like how coins are made, or by pouring melted metal into molds. This lets artists put really detailed designs on both sides.

Wearing them proudly. Many medals are made to be worn hanging from ribbons or chains attached to your clothes or jewelry. Some people display them in special cases at home to show what they've accomplished.

Remembering moments. Medals help people remember important events and achievements in their lives. A medal from a marathon you ran or a competition you won becomes a treasure you can look at and smile about for years.