In 1896 only the first and second place winners 
were recognized.  The winner received a silver 
medal, the second place finisher a bronze.  In 
1908, gold medals were added to the game for the 
winners.  In fact though, the first and second place 
medals are actually made of silver, with the first 
place medal only coated in gold.  The third place 
medal is made of bronze.  At first, the design of the 
medals changed with each Olympics, but beginning 
in 1928 the design was essentially standardized.  
The design for the medals awarded in the Winter 
Games changes with each Olympics.  

In addition to the victory medals, commemorative 
medals are awarded, along with diplomas, to all 
competitors and officials.