Presented here is a highly-coveted gold participation medal from the inaugural 1896 Athens Summer Olympics. Comprised of gilt bronze and plated in gold, these rare medals were issued only to important dignitaries and high-ranking Olympic officials. Its superb design is identical to both the silvered bronze participation medals issued to lesser dignitaries and the solid bronze medals presented to athletes competing in these first modern Games of the I Olympiad. Only a couple hundred of these gold-plated versions were made, making this one exponentially scarcer than the other two versions.

Designed by N. Lytras and minted by W. Pittner (Austria), it measures 50 mm in diameter and 4 mm thick and weighs 58 grams. The obverse shows a seated Nike, Goddess of Victory, holding a laurel wreath over Phoenix emerging from flames with Acropolis in the background. The reverse has the 1896 Athens Olympic legend in Greek surrounded by a laurel wreath. The Immolation of the Phoenix (immortal bird in Greek mythology) and emergence from the ashes symbolizes the rebirth of the Olympic Games after a hiatus of more than 1,500 years. This medal presents in VF condition overall with a tiny green oxidation spot on the obverse and scattered scratches on the surface. The gold plating has not worn down and still carries a shiny glow. An ancient, beautifully-crafted medal that should be the starting point for any serious and comprehensive Olympic collection.