Created in a variety of shapes and sizes, many sporting events and leagues have unique trophies for the winning team or players. Certain awards are produced each year, while others use the same trophy perpetually. Most of these trophies are instantaneously recognizable even to people outside of the sport. Depending on the material, design, and production costs, each trophy has a different value as well.
If you are looking for an award that communicates the same level of excellence as one of the famous trophies below—such as the Stanley Cup or the Lombardi Trophy—then you have come to the right place. EDCO offers the widest range of quality employee recognition and athletic achievement awards in the United States.
Let’s look at some of the most famous trophies in the world, what makes them special, and how EDCO can get your business or team something similar:
- Entertainment Excellence Trophy: Emmy Award and Tyche Global Achievement Award
- Entertainment Icon Trophy: Academy Award (Oscar) and Classic Achiever Award
- Musical Excellence Trophy: Grammy Award and Crystal Microphone Trophy – Voice of Achievement Award
- Golf Champion’s Trophy: Claret Jug and Claret Jug Golf Trophy
- FIFA World Cup Trophy and World Cup Replica
- Gentlemen's Singles Trophy and the Classic Championship Cup
- Venus Rosewater Dish and the Executive Crystal Plate
- Heisman Trophy and the Football Glass Plaque
- Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy and the Tower Basketball Trophy
- Vince Lombardi Trophy and the Football Champion Silverstone Award
- The Masters Trophy: Green Jacket and Ultimate Crystal Golf Tower Trophy
- Olympic Medals: Olympic Gold Medal and Victory Torch Medal
- College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy and Large Faceted Crystal Football Trophy
- Borg-Warner Trophy (Indianapolis 500) and Checkered Flags Crystal Trophy
- Barclays Premier League Trophy and Optimist Dual-Tone Trophy Cup
- Harley J. Earl Trophy (Daytona 500) and Perpetual Recognition Trophy
- Maurice Podoloff Trophy (NBA MVP) and Classic Male Basketball Jump Shot Resin Trophy
- WWE Championship Belt and Champion Presidential Belt
- Tour De France Yellow Jersey and Cobalt Crystal Bowl
- Wanamaker Trophy (PGA Championship) and Cameo Golf Cups
- Gold Glove & Silver Slugger (MLB) and Tower Baseball Trophy
- U.S. Open Championship Trophy (Golf) and Foremost Crystal Trophy Cup
- Horse Racing Glory: Kentucky Derby Trophy and Race Champion Jockey Award
- Triple Crown Trophy (Horse Racing) and Jockey on Horse Trophy
- Ballon d'Or Trophy and Faceted Crystal Soccer Trophy
1. Entertainment Excellence Trophy: Emmy Award and Tyche Global Achievement Award
- Recipient: Outstanding Achievements in Television; Television Industry
- Year Established: 1949
- Designer: Louis McManus
- Material: Gold-plated copper, Nickel, and Silver
- Worth: Estimated around $400
Fun Fact:
The Emmy Award, one of the most recognizable symbols of excellence in the television industry, has been awarded to TV’s top talent since 1949. The iconic winged woman holding an atom represents both the arts and sciences of television. Each year, this coveted trophy honors outstanding achievements in television, spanning genres from drama and comedy to documentaries and reality TV. The Emmy is more than just a trophy; it’s a cultural symbol of success in the entertainment world, reflecting the dedication and artistry of its recipients.
2. Entertainment Icon Trophy: Academy Award (Oscar) and Classic Achiever Award
- Recipient: Outstanding Achievements in Film; Film Industry
- Year Established: 1929
- Designer: Cedric Gibbons and George Stanley
- Material: Gold-plated bronze (originally solid bronze)
- Worth: Estimated around $400
Fun Fact:
The Academy Award, commonly known as the Oscar, is the pinnacle of recognition in the film industry, honoring outstanding achievements in acting, directing, writing, and more. The award's iconic design—a gold-plated knight holding a sword, standing on a reel of film—symbolizes the highest level of artistic achievement in cinema. Since its inception in 1929, the Oscar has been awarded to the most talented and visionary figures in Hollywood, making it one of the most prestigious awards globally.
For those seeking a way to celebrate similar achievements in any industry, EDCO’s Classic Achiever Award provides a perfect alternative. This timeless award features a sleek, classic design that exudes prestige and excellence, making it ideal for recognizing top-tier performance, leadership, or innovation within your organization. With its distinguished appearance, the Classic Achiever Award mirrors the grandeur of the Oscar, serving as a lasting symbol of accomplishment. Additionally, EDCO offers complimentary engraving services, allowing you to personalize this award to honor your team’s most outstanding performers with a truly memorable trophy.
3. Musical Excellence Trophy: Grammy Award and Crystal Microphone Trophy – Voice of Achievement Award
- Recipient: Outstanding Achievements in Music; Music Industry
- Year Established: 1959
- Designer: Bob Graves
- Material: Gold-Plated Zinc Alloy
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed, estimated at $15,000
Fun Fact:
The Grammy Award, often referred to as the pinnacle of music industry accolades, is awarded to artists, composers, producers, and sound engineers who have achieved extraordinary success in their craft. Representing a gilded gramophone, this iconic trophy has been celebrated since 1959 and honors a wide range of musical achievements across genres. The Grammy signifies both technical mastery and artistic brilliance, making it one of the most coveted awards in entertainment.
For those looking to honor vocal or musical achievements within their organization, the EDCO Crystal Microphone Trophy – Voice of Achievement Award offers a stunning equivalent. With its sleek crystal microphone design, this award captures the essence of sound and achievement, making it perfect for recognizing excellence in fields like public speaking, broadcasting, or music. The elegant design reflects the prestige of the Grammy, making it an ideal choice for celebrating top performers in any creative or communication-oriented field. EDCO also provides free engraving, allowing for personalized recognition of your team’s star talents.
4. Golf Champions Trophy: Claret Jug and Claret Jug Golf Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of The Open Championship (British Open); Professional Golf
- Year Established: 1872
- Designer: Mackay Cunningham & Company of Edinburgh
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: Priceless (due to historical significance)
Fun Fact:
The Claret Jug is one of the most prestigious and recognizable trophies in the world of golf, awarded annually to the winner of The Open Championship, the oldest of golf's four major tournaments. Officially known as the Golf Champion Trophy, it has symbolized the pinnacle of achievement in golf since 1872. The sleek, elegant design of the jug reflects the rich tradition and heritage of the sport, making it a highly coveted prize for professional golfers.
For those looking to celebrate golfing excellence in their own tournaments or corporate events, EDCO’s Claret Jug Golf Trophy offers an equally stunning representation. Crafted with attention to detail, this beautiful award is perfect for recognizing top-tier performance on the course. Whether for a professional golf event or a corporate outing, the Claret Jug Golf Trophy embodies the same spirit of victory and prestige as the original. With EDCO's free engraving, you can customize the award to commemorate any outstanding achievement, making it a timeless keepsake for any golf champion.
5. Soccer Championship Trophy: FIFA World Cup Trophy and World Cup Replica
- Recipient: The Winning Team of the FIFA World Cup; International Soccer
- Year Established: 1930
- Designer: Silvio Gazzaniga
- Material: Gold
- Worth: ~$20,000,000
Fun Fact:
Originally called the Jules Rimet Trophy, the current FIFA World Cup was first awarded in 1974. The new trophy came to be after Brazil won the original for the third time in a row in 1970, as its creator—Jules Rimet himself—had declared the first country to do so would get to keep it forever.
Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga won the contest to design the new trophy out of 53 submissions from seven different countries. The trophy stands just over a foot tall, weighs roughly 13.5 lbs, and features 18 carat gold in its composition. A total of 12 countries have won the trophy and had their names engraved on the base as of 2018.
Though getting your hands on an actual FIFA World Cup Trophy may prove difficult, EDCO happily offers a similar design for any soccer enthusiast or youth coach. Our World Cup Replica Trophies also feature free engraving services for any and all champions.
6. Men's Tennis Championship Trophy: Gentlemen's Singles Trophy and the Classic Championship Cup
- Recipient: The Winning Player for Men's Singles at Wimbledon; Men's Professional Tennis Solos
- Year Established: 1887
- Originator: All England Club
- Material: Silver Gilt
- Worth: Not Available
Fun Fact:
The Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy is perhaps the most mysterious on this list. First appearing in 1887, the trophy stands a foot and a half high, but even the winners only receive a replica of about ¾’s the original size. Even more curious is the pineapple that sits at the top of the perpetual trophy, which some theorize to be a 17th-century status symbol, though the true meaning has been lost to time.
In 2009, a plinth was added to the base of the trophy because no more room was available for the winners’ names. The black plinth features a silver band that will ideally feature the names of engraved champions for decades to come.
EDCO offers a similarly shaped award in the form of the Classic Championship Cup that is perfect for recognizing a truly outstanding achievement in any arena, in or out of the workplace. Individuals and teams of employees alike will appreciate the prominence and presence of this trophy, which is actually a bit larger than the Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy itself.
7. Women's Tennis Championship Trophy: Venus Rosewater Dish and the Executive Crystal Plate
- Recipient: The Winning Player for Women's Singles at Wimbledon; Women's Professional Tennis Solos
- Year Established: 1886
- Originator: Elkington and Co.
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: $19,000.00
Fun Fact:
The Venus Rosewater Dish is perhaps the more iconic of the two Wimbledon trophies presented annually. The perpetual award was modeled off a pewter rosewater dish in 1864 that still remains in the Louvre to this day.
The dish has a circumference of just under 60 inches and includes gilded sterling silver material displaying mystic figures and designs throughout. The names of champions from the first 73 years of the award’s history display on the inside of the dish, with the remaining winners from 1958 onwards inscribed on the outside.
Though EDCO unfortunately cannot provide 19th-century artifacts to its customers, we do offer trophy plates, silver plaques, and art glass awards that include various similarities to the Venus Rosewater Dish.
8. MVP Award: Heisman Trophy and Classic Football Resin Trophy
- Recipient: The Most Outstanding Player in College Football; NCAA Sports
- Year Established: 1935
- Designer: Frank Eliscu
- Material: Bronze
- Worth: Varies depending on the winner, a recent Heisman sold went for over $500,000.00 in 2019 (Ricky Williams, 1998)
Fun Fact:
The Heisman Trophy is perhaps the most iconic individual award in American sports. First awarded in 1935 to Chicago Maroons running back Jay Berwanger, the trophy was originally known as the “Downtown Athletic Club Trophy” before adopting the Heisman name the following year. In 2020, a wide receiver won the award for the first time in three decades.
Though it is named the Heisman Trophy, the award is actually modeled off of former New York University running back Ed Smith—not the more famously-known John Heisman. The trophy includes a cast bronze finish, weighs roughly 45 lbs, and stands just over a foot tall. As of 1999, recipients are required to sign a waiver saying they will not sell the trophy.
While bronze is typically associated with third place, it remains a quality material for composing awards and recognizing the achievements of athletes and employees alike. EDCO offers a Football Trophy that features a Heisman-esque figure throwing a stiff arm, but for a more corporate bronze award, the Circle Teamwork Award is an excellent choice.
9. Basketball Championship Trophy: Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy and Basketball World Champion Trophy
- Recipient: The Winning Team of the NBA Championship; Professional Basketball
- Year Established: 1977
- Designer: Tiffany and Co.
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: ~$13,500.00
Fun Fact:
Originally known as the NBA Finals Trophy, the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy has gone to the NBA Champion every year since 1947. The award originally featured a cup design, but the more commonly-recognized modern trophy took its place in 1977.
The trophy weighs about 15.5 lbs, stands two feet tall, and prominently features sterling silver and vermeil material with a 24 karat gold overlay. The trophy’s figure depicts a life-size basketball falling into a net.
If you are looking for a similarly-shaped award, EDCO offers a Basketball Trophy that features the same style of a basketball cascading into a golden net. For a more classic shape that offers great versatility across companies and sports teams alike, EDCO also offers a Classic Americana Cup in three different sizes.
10. Football Championship Trophy: Vince Lombardi Trophy and the Football Champion Silverstone Award
- Recipient: The Winning Team of the NFL's Championship Game; Professional Football
- Year Established: 1996
- Designer: Tiffany and Co.
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: $10,000.00+
Fun Fact:
Named after the renowned Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi, the Lombardi Trophy originated as merely a sketch on a cocktail napkin during the NFL commissioner’s lunch break. It was originally known as the World Professional Football Championship until Lombardi’s death four years after its inception, upon which it was renamed in Lombardi’s honor.
The trophy stands a couple of inches short of two feet tall, weighs shockingly light at just seven lbs, and features a thorough composition of sterling silver. Though teams originally received the trophy in the locker room following the big game, the owner of the winning team has since received the trophy on the field immediately following the contest since 1996. The NFL commissions new Lombardi trophies every year so that the winning teams may maintain permanent possessions of their award.
With a sleek and simple design, the Lombardi Trophy remains an icon among all awards. As such, EDCO proudly offers many similar trophies in a variety of materials and sizes, such as the Football Champion Silverstone Award.
11. The Masters Trophy: Green Jacket and Ultimate Crystal Golf Tower Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of the Masters Golf Tournament; Professional Golf
- Year Established: 1937
- Originator: Augusta National Golf Club
- Material: Wool
- Worth: Priceless (tradition-based value)
Fun Fact:
The Green Jacket is awarded annually to the Masters champion, who is allowed to keep it for one year before returning it to Augusta National. It signifies membership in one of golf's most exclusive clubs. EDCO's Ultimate Crystal Golf Tower Trophy offers a prestigious way to recognize outstanding achievements in any field.
12. Olympic Medals: Olympic Gold Medal and Victory Torch Medal
- Recipient: Winners of Olympic events; Various sports
- Year Established: 1896 (Modern Olympics)
- Designer: Varies by Olympic Games
- Material: Gold-plated silver
- Worth: Varies by weight and design
Fun Fact:
The Olympic gold medal is one of the most recognized awards globally, symbolizing the pinnacle of athletic achievement. Each host city designs unique medals, often reflecting their culture and heritage. EDCO offers customizable gold medals for athletic and corporate achievements, providing a similar sense of prestige.
13. College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy and Large Faceted Crystal Football Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of the College Football Playoff National Championship; NCAA Football
- Year Established: 2014
- Designer: Polich Tallix
- Material: Gold, bronze, and stainless steel
- Worth: Estimated $30,000
Fun Fact:
The trophy is handcrafted and stands 26.5 inches tall, symbolizing the triumph of college football's best team. It replaced the previous BCS National Championship Trophy. EDCO offers high-quality trophies and plaques to celebrate similar levels of achievement in sports and business.
14. Borg-Warner Trophy (Indianapolis 500) and Checkered Flags Crystal Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of the Indianapolis 500; Auto Racing
- Year Established: 1936
- Designer: Robert J. Hill and Spaulding-Gorham Inc.
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: $3.5 million
Fun Fact:
The Borg-Warner Trophy features the faces of every Indianapolis 500 winner sculpted onto its surface. It stands over 5 feet tall and weighs around 110 pounds. EDCO's custom trophies and plaques can be tailored to commemorate significant milestones and achievements.
15. Barclays Premier League Trophy and Optimist Dual-Tone Trophy Cup
- Recipient: Winner of the English Premier League; Professional Soccer
- Year Established: 1992
- Designer: Asprey London
- Material: Sterling Silver, Silver gilt, and Malachite
- Worth: $10,000
Fun Fact:
The Premier League Trophy features a golden crown and malachite base, symbolizing the "crown" of English football. It weighs 56 pounds and is 30 inches tall. EDCO offers a range of soccer trophies that capture the elegance and prestige of this iconic award.
16. Harley J. Earl Trophy (Daytona 500) and Perpetual Recognition Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of the Daytona 500; NASCAR
- Year Established: 1959
- Designer: Harley J. Earl
- Material: Silver
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
The trophy is named after Harley Earl, who was pivotal in NASCAR’s early development. It features a model of Earl’s famous Chevrolet Bel Air and is awarded to the winner of one of NASCAR’s most prestigious races. EDCO offers custom trophies for excellence in the racing industry.
17. Maurice Podoloff Trophy (NBA MVP) and Classic Male Basketball Jump Shot Resin Trophy
- Recipient: NBA Most Valuable Player; Professional Basketball
- Year Established: 1956
- Designer: Varies
- Material: Bronze
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
Named after the NBA’s first president, the Maurice Podoloff Trophy is awarded annually to the league's most valuable player. The trophy has become synonymous with basketball excellence. EDCO provides customizable basketball trophies that reflect the prestige of this award.
18. WWE Championship Belt and Champion Presidential Belt
- Recipient: WWE Champion; Professional Wrestling
- Year Established: 1963
- Designer: WWE
- Material: Gold and Leather
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
The WWE Championship Belt is one of the most iconic symbols in professional wrestling. It has undergone numerous redesigns, each iteration symbolizing the champion's status in WWE. EDCO can create custom championship belts for various sports and corporate events.
19. Tour De France Yellow Jersey and Cobalt Crystal Bowl
- Recipient: Winner of the Tour de France; Professional Cycling
- Year Established: 1919
- Designer: Le Coq Sportif
- Material: Wool
- Worth: Priceless (tradition-based value)
Fun Fact:
The yellow jersey, or "maillot jaune," is awarded to the overall leader of the Tour de France, one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world. It symbolizes endurance, supremacy, and resilience, marking the rider who has the best overall time. Introduced in 1919, the yellow jersey has become an iconic symbol of the race and is highly coveted by cyclists. EDCO’s custom cycling awards can celebrate similar achievements, recognizing outstanding performance and dedication in the sport of cycling.
20. Wanamaker Trophy (PGA Championship) and Cameo Golf Cups
- Recipient: Winner of the PGA Championship; Professional Golf
- Year Established: 1916
- Designer: Lewis Rodman Wanamaker
- Material: Silver
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
Named after Rodman Wanamaker, who organized the first PGA Championship in 1916, the Wanamaker Trophy is one of golf’s most prestigious awards. Standing over two feet tall and weighing nearly 30 pounds, the trophy symbolizes the pinnacle of professional golf excellence. It has been awarded to some of the greatest golfers in history, adding to its legendary status. EDCO offers a variety of custom golf trophies that capture the elegance and grandeur of this historic award, perfect for honoring exceptional achievements in the sport.
21. Gold Glove & Silver Slugger (MLB) and Tower Baseball Trophy
- Recipient: Best defensive player (Gold Glove) and best offensive player (Silver Slugger) in each position; Professional Baseball
- Year Established: Gold Glove in 1957, Silver Slugger in 1980
- Designer: Varies
- Material: Gold and Silver-plated materials
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
These awards recognize the best defensive and offensive players in Major League Baseball. The Gold Glove is awarded for fielding excellence, while the Silver Slugger is given for batting performance. Winning a Gold Glove is considered one of the highest honors for a defensive player, emphasizing their skill and athleticism on the field. Similarly, the Silver Slugger highlights the best hitters, showcasing their offensive prowess. EDCO’s custom baseball trophies can honor similar outstanding achievements, offering a range of options to celebrate excellence in sports.
22. U.S. Open Championship Trophy (Golf) and Foremost Crystal Trophy Cup
- Recipient: Winner of the U.S. Open; Professional Golf
- Year Established: 1895
- Designer: The Gorham Company
- Material: Sterling Silver
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
The U.S. Open Championship Trophy is one of the oldest and most prestigious trophies in golf, awarded annually to the winner of the U.S. Open since 1895. The original trophy, which had a storied history, was tragically destroyed in a fire, leading to the creation of a replica in 1947. This trophy symbolizes the pinnacle of achievement in golf. EDCO offers a variety of customizable golf trophies that can recognize exceptional performance and mirror the prestige of the U.S. Open Championship Trophy.
23. Horse Racing Glory: Kentucky Derby Trophy and Race Champion Jockey Award
- Recipient: Winner of the Kentucky Derby; Thoroughbred Horse Racing
- Year Established: 1924 (current design)
- Designer: Lemon & Son (Louisville, KY)
- Material: Solid Gold
- Worth: Estimated at $200,000
Fun Fact:
The Kentucky Derby Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in horse racing, given to the winner of the "Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports." The solid gold trophy has been a symbol of racing glory since 1924 and is one of the few sports trophies made entirely of gold. The Derby itself is a hallmark of American sports culture, and the trophy represents the pinnacle of success for both jockeys and their horses.
For those looking to capture the essence of victory in racing, EDCO’s Race Champion Jockey Award offers a striking alternative. This award features a beautifully detailed jockey and horse design, celebrating excellence in equestrian sports or any competitive event. Whether used to honor achievements in horse racing, motorsports, or other speed-related competitions, this trophy exudes prestige and celebrates top performance. With customizable engraving, the Race Champion Jockey Award can be tailored to recognize outstanding accomplishments, providing a lasting symbol of triumph in any race.
24. Triple Crown Trophy (Horse Racing) and Jockey on Horse Trophy
- Recipient: Winner of the Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes); Horse Racing
- Year Established: 1950
- Designer: Cartier
- Material: Silver
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
The Triple Crown Trophy is awarded to a horse that wins the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes in a single year. Since its inception in 1950, only 13 horses have achieved this rare feat, highlighting its difficulty and prestige. The trophy, designed by Cartier, is made of silver and remains one of the most coveted awards in horse racing. EDCO’s custom horse racing trophies can celebrate similar milestones, capturing the essence of excellence and triumph in this elite sport.
25. Ballon d'Or Trophy and Faceted Crystal Soccer Trophy
- Recipient: Best male and female football player of the year; Professional Soccer
- Year Established: 1956
- Designer: Mellerio dits Melle
- Material: Gold-plated brass with a pyrite base
- Worth: Not publicly disclosed
Fun Fact:
The Ballon d'Or is one of the most prestigious individual awards in football, awarded annually by France Football. The trophy's name translates to "Golden Ball," symbolizing the excellence of the recipient. EDCO offers a variety of custom soccer trophies that capture the prestige and honor of the Ballon d'Or.
- Stanley Cup
- Ballon d'Or Trophy
- America's Cup Trophy
- Africa Cup of Nations Trophy
- DFB-Pokal trophy
- Serie A Trophy
- Bundesliga Trophy
What are the best trophies of all time?
According to Fox, the best trophies of all time are:
- The Stanley Cup
- Olympic Gold Medal
- Heisman Trophy
- Green Jacket
- College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy
- Borg-Warner Trophy
- Barclays Premier League Trophy
- Harley J. Earl Trophy
- Maurice Podoloff Trophy
- Vince Lombardi Trophy
- WWE Championship Belt
- Gentlemen's & Ladies' Singles Trophies
- College Football Rivalry Trophies
- The Commissioner's Trophy
- Tour De France Yellow Jersey
- Wanamaker Trophy
- Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy & Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award
- Gold Glove & Silver Slugger
- U.S. Open Championship Trophy
- FIFA World Cup Trophy
- WNBA Championship Trophy
- MLS Cup
- Claret Jug
- Triple Crown Trophy
- NCAA Championship Trophy
What is the oldest trophy in the world?
The Carlisle Bell is a British flat horse race, dating back to 1599 and is said to have the oldest trophy, at 400+ years old.