One can come to a number of separate meanings from the term ‘medal’. The first meaning that readily comes to one’s mind is that a medal is a wearable token of prestige award given by the government for dedicated services to the nation (for example, medal of honor for bravery in wars and battles).
There is a sharp distinction between a medal and an award. One might say that a medal is particular kind of an award, but a medal is in no way a prize. A prize always refers to the material aspect of the award, like prize money, bumper prizes, and so on.
However, a medal is devoid of the material aspect of the deed for which it is given. A medal is more recognition, a token of respect to the person to whom it is given. Mostly, medals belong to a tradition of awards, where apart from battles, they are given in particular fields for outstanding achievement or the capability to become a part of the broader history. Two examples are the Nobel Prize or the Carnegie Hero.
Medals are given in the fields of battle, sports and other achievements. In past days, common men (mostly soldiers) were given awarded with some outward sign of service given by them to the government. The medals formed a part of the formal uniforms, where the medals of various shapes and sizes designated the dignity and status of the particular person who carried the medal.
However, commemorative medals are issued in memory of a notable person or event. There were civil and military decorative medals minted in memory of some of the most notable men and events. Roman Catholics still wear religious medals, and they are believed to be efficacious if blessed by the Church (which is an authority itself).
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Award Medals
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Medals are given in the fields of battle, sports and other achievements. In past days, common men (mostly soldiers) were given awards with some outward sign of service by the government. The medals formed a part of the formal uniforms, where the medals of various...
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Military Medals
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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Medals are given in the fields of battles, sports and other achievements. In past days, common men (mostly soldiers) were given awarded with some outward sign of service. The medals formed a part of the formal uniforms, where the medals of various shapes and sizes...
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10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
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British Medals
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A medal is an item of honor given by a government authority for extraordinary services rendered for the country, especially as in military services. The word medal is restricted to a piece of metal that is coin like in shape. However, it has a deeper...
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Sports Medals
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Venice Film Festivals
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Flag Display Cases
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