Vintage Trophy
The concept of a trophy dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, although winners of the original Olympics received laurel wreaths, not a silver trophy or a ceramic vase. Trophy presentations, including "loving cups," chalices, and silver figurines date back to the 1500s in France and continue to be awarded today.
Are vintage horse racing trophies available?The earliest documented horse racing trophy in North America was the Kyp Cup, a two-handled trophy given to the winner of a horse race dating back to 1699, and the Carlisle Bells were first awarded in 1559 in the United Kingdom. Vintage horse show and racing commemoratives from more recent eras may be available for purchase, including silver cups from the 1930s. A trophy from a harness race, thoroughbred race, and quarter horse racing may be available. Antique horse racing awards may be available dating back to the 1900s. An antique trophy that may have been presented to riders and to owners may be found in silver, silver plate, plated gold, bronze, and other metals.
Are vintage golf trophy cups made?A vintage golf trophy cup may be available dating from the 1930s to the 1960s. Golf awards feature golf figurines mounted on wood or metal bases and come with or without engraving. Other golf commemoratives may also be Revere bowls, loving cups, or presentation urns with engraved bases. Vintage golf trophy motifs include hole-in-one awards, crossed golf clubs, clubs and balls surrounding a wood base, and sculpted golf figures.
Are there vintage tennis trophies for sale?Some form of tennis may date back to the 12th century in France, but tennis played with a net and racket began in the 16th century in England and France. Two of the oldest tennis tournaments are Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, dating to the 19th century. An antique tennis trophy from the 19th century may be available. A local or regional tennis trophy cup made from bronze plated gold or silver plate may be available dating from the early 20th century. A large antique or vintage tennis award may include multiple engraving plates. A sculpted vintage tennis trophy may be made from cast bronze, silver plate, or pewter. Some vintage figurines of male or female tennis players serving the ball or waiting to return a shot may be available.
Are there trophy cups of pure or sterling silver available?Sterling silver, containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% alloy metals including copper, are used for trophy cups due to its melting point and malleability. Melting at approximately 200 degrees less than gold, a sterling alloy is flexible and retains its finish through polishing. A trophy cup has been molded or forged from alloys like sterling since antique versions began to be awarded in the 1500s in Europe. Over time, antique award metals may tarnish, developing a patina. Sterling award cups may be polished or may have a patina.
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