NEW BOOK: CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDALS

Introduction

Since the late 1700s, Congress has expressed public gratitude to individuals and groups by awarding medals and other similar decorations. The first Congressional Gold Medals were awarded by the Continental Congress. Since that time, Congress has awarded gold medals to express public gratitude for distinguished contributions, dramatize the virtues of patriotism, and perpetuate the remembrance of great events. This tradition of authorizing individually struck gold medals bearing the portraits or actions of honorees is rich with history.

Although Congress has approved legislation stipulating specific requirements for numerous other awards and decorations, there are no permanent statutory provisions specifically relating to the creation of Congressional Gold Medals. When Congress has determined that such an award is appropriate, it has, by special action, provided for the creation of a personalized medal to be given in the name of Congress.

Early Practices

The Continental Congress authorized the first Congressional Gold Medals. As initially conceived, Congressional Gold Medals were awards imbued with the conviction that only the very highest achievements [were] entitled to such a distinction, and that the value of a reward is enhanced by its rarity! At that time, the Continental Congress concluded there was no better way to honor and preserve the memory of illustrious characters and splendid events than medals—whether we take into consideration the imperishable nature of the substance whence they are formed, the facility of multiplying copies, or the practice of depositing them in the cabinets of the curious.

The first gold medals were struck in Paris under the direction of Colonel David Humphrey.

Following a long-standing historical practice, Congress commissioned gold medals as tributes for what were considered to be the most distinguished achievements. Silver and bronze medals, and ceremonial swords, were awarded for less eminent, but still notable, accomplishments. However, only the gold medal has been continuously awarded to the present day. The first Congressional Gold Medal was authorized on March 25, 1776, for George Washington, then commander of the Continental Army, for his wise and spirited conduct in bringing about British evacuation of Boston. During the next 12 years, the Continental Congress authorized an additional six gold medals for Revolutionary military leaders.

To read the complete report, see:
Congressional Gold Medals: Background, Legislative Process, and Issues for Congress (https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R45101.pdf)

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