At the Paris 2024 Olympics, athletes are vying for more than just eternal glory—they’re competing for what’s touted as the most valuable gold medal in Olympic history.
Yet, beneath the surface of these highly coveted prizes lies an unexpected truth that’s left some athletes feeling underwhelmed.
Forbes Australia reports that the estimated value of a Paris 2024 gold medal is an impressive US$950 (RM4,250), setting a new benchmark in Olympic history.
This staggering figure surpasses the record held by the London 2012 gold medals, which were valued at US$708. The soaring price of gold is the primary driver behind this surge in value.
However, the medals aren’t exactly what they seem.
Despite their gold appearance, these medals are actually composed of 95.4 percent silver, weighing in at 505 grams, with only a thin coating of gold.
2024 Paris Olympic bronze medal is actually only worth RM58
Even more surprising is the fact that the silver medals weigh more at 525 grams, valued at US$486 (RM2,174), while the bronze medals, made from a blend of copper, zinc, and iron, are worth just US$13 (RM58).
For many, these revelations raise questions about what truly defines the value of an Olympic medal. Is it the price tag, or the sentiment behind it?
This debate took centre stage when Nyjah Huston, the American skateboarding sensation, publicly criticised the quality of his Paris 2024 bronze medal.
Huston, who had previously dominated the X Games with 15 gold medals, finally secured his first Olympic medal at the Paris Games.
However, the street skateboarding icon was disappointed when he noticed that his bronze medal began to show signs of wear shortly after he received it.
In an Instagram post highlighted by TMZ, Huston expressed his frustration:
“They look great when they’re brand new, but after letting it sit on my skin with some sweat for lil’ bit and letting my friends wear it over the weekend, they’re apparently not as high quality as you would think.”
He also added:
“I mean look at that thing, It’s looking rough! Even the front is starting to chip off a little.”
“I don’t know. Olympic medals, maybe step up the quality a little bit.”
