medals - A medal is a small metal object, usually engraved with insignia, that is awarded to a person for athletic, military, scientific, academic or some other kind of achievement. There also exist devotional medals, worn to indicate religious faith. Medals have historically been given as prizes in various types of competitive activities, especially athletics. Traditionally, medals are made of the following metals: Gold (or another yellow metal, e.g. brass) Silver (or another grey metal, e.g. steel) Bronze