Medal vs. Medallion: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A "medal" is a small, flat, typically round piece awarded as a token of honor or achievement, while a "medallion" is a larger, decorative emblem or coin, often worn as jewelry or displayed.
Key Differences
Medals are usually awarded to recognize achievements or honors, often in military, academic, or sports fields. Medallions, however, are larger decorative pieces, often used for ornamental purposes, such as in jewelry or architecture.
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Nov 20, 2023
A medal is typically made of metal and worn on the chest, suspended by a ribbon. Medallions can be made from various materials, including metal, and are often worn around the neck or displayed as an object of art.
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The size of a medal is generally smaller and designed for wearability, symbolizing recognition or commemoration. Medallions are larger, often showcasing intricate designs and used for decorative purposes.
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Medals often have specific symbolic meanings, linked to the occasion or achievement they represent. Medallions, while they can be commemorative, are more versatile in use, serving as artistic pieces or personal adornments.
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In terms of manufacturing, medals are usually produced in larger quantities for award ceremonies, whereas medallions might be crafted individually or in limited editions, highlighting their decorative and artistic value.
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Comparison Chart
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Medal and Medallion Definitions
Medal
An emblem awarded in sports competitions.
He won a silver medal in the swimming championship.
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Medallion
An emblematic coin-like piece used decoratively.
The ornate medallion was the centerpiece of the mural.
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Medal
A commemorative piece issued for a significant event.
They issued a special medal for the city's bicentennial.
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Medallion
A decorative emblem in architecture or art.
The ceiling featured a stunning medallion with intricate designs.
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Medal
A token of honor or military distinction.
The veteran proudly displayed his medals from the war.
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Medallion
A large, round piece commemorating an event or person.
The museum displayed a medallion of the famous historical figure.
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Medal
A symbol of academic achievement or honor.
She was awarded a medal for her academic excellence.
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Medal
A flat piece of metal stamped with a design or an inscription commemorating an event or a person, often given as an award.
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Medal
A piece of metal stamped with a religious device, used as an object of veneration or commemoration.
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Medal
To win a medal, as in a sports contest
"We were the first Americans to medal" (Jill Watson).
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Medal
A stamped metal disc used as a personal ornament, a charm, or a religious object.
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Medallion
A circular portion of food, especially a boneless cut of meat
Medallions of veal.
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Medal
A stamped or cast metal object (usually a disc), particularly one awarded as a prize or reward.
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Medallion
(art) A usually round or oval frame (often made of stucco) containing a decoration.
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Medal
A piece of metal in the form of a coin, struck with a device, and intended to preserve the remembrance of a notable event or an illustrious person, or to serve as a reward.
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Medallion
A circular certificate used in some places to register a vehicle, especially a taxicab.
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Medal
An award for winning a championship or commemorating some other event
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Medallion
To mark with, or as with, a medallion or medallions.
A sunset that medallioned the eastern sky
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Medal
A small, flat piece of metal awarded for an achievement.
She received a gold medal for her performance in the Olympics.
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Medallion
A circular or oval (or, sometimes, square) tablet bearing a figure or figures represented in relief.
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Medallion
A circular helping of food (especially a boneless cut of meat);
Medallions of veal
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Medallion
An award for winning a championship or commemorating some other event
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Medallion
A large, ornamental metal disc, often worn as jewelry.
The necklace had a beautiful gold medallion.
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Medallion
An ornate token or award, larger than a medal.
He received a special medallion for his contributions to the arts.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can medallions be used as awards?
Yes, but they are more often decorative than medals.
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What is a medal typically made of?
Medals are usually made of metal like bronze, silver, or gold.
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What size is a typical medallion?
Medallions are larger than medals, often several inches in diameter.
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Can medallions be made of materials other than metal?
Yes, they can be made from various materials, including plastic or glass.
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Do medals have ribbons?
Yes, medals are often attached to ribbons for wearing.
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Are Olympic awards considered medals?
Yes, Olympic awards are typically medals.
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Do medallions hold any symbolic meaning?
They can, but they're often more artistic than symbolic.
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Are medals only for military achievements?
No, they are awarded in various fields, including sports and academics.
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Can medallions be part of jewelry?
Yes, medallions are often used in necklaces and other jewelry pieces.
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Do medals denote bravery?
Some medals, especially in the military, denote bravery.
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Do medals have intrinsic value?
They can, especially if made from precious metals.
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Can medallions be historic artifacts?
Yes, especially those commemorating significant events or figures.
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What's the difference in the design of medals and medallions?
Medals are simpler, while medallions often have more intricate designs.
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Are medals worn in everyday life?
Not usually; they are typically worn for ceremonies or displayed.
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Are medallions collectible items?
Yes, many people collect medallions for their artistic or commemorative value.
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Can medallions be custom-made?
Yes, they are often crafted to specific designs.
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Can anyone receive a medal?
Yes, depending on the criteria of the awarding body.
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Are medallions ever used in architecture?
Yes, as decorative elements in buildings and interiors.
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Is a medal a form of recognition?
Yes, it's primarily a token of honor or achievement.
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Nov 20, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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