Curling medals with miniature stones

Abstract

This paper describes a small group of exuberantly designed and skilfully executed medals which were
produced between 1842 and 1858 as trophies in the game of curling. For much of the 19th century,
the main trophy of the game was the medal, which was competed for annually, or as frequently as
the weather permitted. The winner, or winners then held the medal until the date of the next contest.
These medals were not designed to be worn; they were to be displayed and admired rather like small
works of art. This group is very unusual, in that miniature stones and various other implements of
the game are set upon the obverse.