Long before I crossed my first marathon finish line or watched my son proudly accept his 5K medal, I was already fascinated by the meaning behind these small but powerful symbols. Whether it’s for winning a race, serving with honor, or simply showing up and giving your best—medals have always meant something.

And they’ve meant something for a long time.

The Origins of Medals

The earliest recorded instance of a medal-like honor dates back to the 3rd century B.C. Jewish historian Flavius Josephus recounted that after the high priest Jonathan led the Hebrews to assist Alexander the Great in battle, Alexander rewarded him with a golden button—a token typically reserved for the king’s kinsmen (source).

Evolution Through the Ages

In ancient Greece, victors of athletic competitions were crowned with laurel wreaths, symbolizing glory and achievement (source). The Romans adopted this tradition, with laurel wreaths becoming emblems of martial victory, often worn by triumphant generals during celebratory processions (source).

Fast forward to the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I commissioned medals to commemorate the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. These medals bore the inscription "Flavit Jehovah et Dissipati Sunt" ("He blew and they were scattered"), attributing the victory to divine intervention.

Medals in Modern Times

Today, medals are awarded across countless fields—from Olympic podiums to academic excellence. The Nobel Prize, established in 1901, is among the most prestigious, recognizing contributions to humanity. Each medal features a portrait of Alfred Nobel and is a work of art in itself.

Of course, not every medal comes with worldwide fame—but they all carry personal meaning. A 5K finisher’s medal. A challenge coin for service. A keepsake from a childhood competition. These aren’t just tokens—they’re moments.

So Why Hide Them?

At Medal Blocks, we believe these stories should be seen—not stashed in a drawer. That’s why we build innovative displays for collectibles that highlight what matters most.

From our triangle 3-coin holders to our stackable Hexablox displays, we’re constantly pushing forward. While others replicate, we originate. Because your medal deserves better than a shadowbox you never open.

Out of the Box. On Display.
It’s more than a tagline. It’s how we honor your wins—big and small.