Are Olympic Gold Medals Really Made Out of Gold?

The Olympics - A tradition that has lasted throughout the years and one that brings the world together as a whole to cheer for those representing their own country. A sense of honor and pride seems to exude from everyone involved in these spectacular events. 

To be able to watch the Olympics take place, whether rich or poor, is something wonderful to behold. Everyone on the edge of their seat, supporting athletes that have trained most of their entire lives for the moment when they can be chosen to represent their country. 

Imagine being an athlete from any country, and winning the gold medal; even just once having that moment when the medal is draped over your neck and the national anthem for your country is played for all to hear. To be so proud and so ecstatic at that specific moment in time for your country and yourself. Now take into consideration that the same gold medal is not really made out of gold!

Sadly enough, it is true. The Olympic Gold Medal is not really made out of gold. The last true gold medals were, according to some, awarded at the Olympics in the year 1912. Each medal is designed by the host city's committee, which explains why the medals vary each season. 

They have specific guidelines to follow though. The medals themselves must be at least 3 millimeters thick, and each medal must also be at least 60 millimeters in diameter. The Gold and Silver Medals must be made out of 92.5 percent silver. 

After the medals are created, the ones used for the Gold Medals are set aside to be coated in a plating of 6 grams of gold. So, while the Gold Medals themselves are not made out of gold all the way through, they still have a solid gold coating to give the illusion of being made from gold.

So, how much is an Olympic Gold Medal worth? There is no way to be completely sure, since the market changes from day to day. But, some have estimated their monetary value at being only around 220 dollars apiece! That may not seem right considering the sentimental value that goes along with the Gold Medal. 

Assuming that each medal has exactly 6 grams of gold, and is 92.5 percent silver: that rates the gold being worth around 160 dollars, and the silver at around 60 dollars. With that being said, not everybody knows the actual monetary value because of varying financial markets, and they could actually be sold for more.

But no matter the monetary value, at Cash4Gold, they only employ the best staff to make sure all transactions are taken care of in the safest, most secure way. They leave out the middle man, so everything is only dealt with between them and their customers, keeping a close personal relationship with their clients. From rings to heirlooms and medals, they make sure that you get the best and quickest service their clients deserve.