Jesse Owens’ Congressional Gold Medal, Posthumously Presented by George H.W. Bush

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest award the United States can bestow upon a civilian. The award was created in 1776 by the Continental Congress, with George Washington as its first recipient. Congress awards the medal to persons “who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture that is likely to be recognized as a major achievement in the recipient’s field long after the achievement.”

Ruth Owens accepted the award on her late husband’s behalf. The ceremony, held on March 28, 1990, featured a poignant speech by President George H.W. Bush who was joined by several Olympians.

Unlike the Presidential Medal of Freedom or other notable awards, the Congressional Gold Medal has no standard design. It is created by the U.S. mint specifically for that person.

★ JESSE OWENS. Crafted in solid 22-karat gold, the medal measures three inches in diameter and weighs 18.2 ounces. The obverse features a bust sculpted by T.J. Ferrell, titled “JESSE OWENS 1913-1980 OLYMPIC CHAMPION.” The reverse has a dramatic relief sculpture of Owens in full stride surmounted with the legend “DETERMINATION, DEDICATION, DISCIPLINE, ATTITUDE.” #25191