Introduction

Since the late 1700s, Congress has expressed public gratitude to individuals and groups byawarding medals and other similar decorations. The first Congressional Gold Medals wereawarded by the Continental Congress. Since that time, Congress has awarded gold medals toexpress public gratitude for distinguished contributions, dramatize the virtues of patriotism, andperpetuate the remembrance of great events. This tradition of authorizing individually struck goldmedals bearing the portraits or actions of honorees is rich with history.

Although Congress has approved legislation stipulating specific requirements for numerous otherawards and decorations, there are no permanent statutory provisions specifically relating to thecreation of Congressional Gold Medals. When Congress has determined that such an award isappropriate, it has, by special action, provided for the creation of a personalized medal to begiven in the name of Congress.

Early Practices

The Continental Congress authorized the first Congressional Gold Medals. As initially conceived,Congressional Gold Medals were awards At that time, the Continental Congress concluded there was no better way to honor

The first gold medals were struck in Paris under the direction of Colonel David Humphrey.

Following a long-standing historical practice, Congress commissioned gold medals as tributes forwhat were considered to be the most distinguished achievements. Silver and bronze medals, andceremonial swords, were awarded for less eminent, but still notable, accomplishments. However,only the gold medal has been continuously awarded to the present day.The first Congressional Gold Medal was authorized on March 25, 1776, for George Washington,then commander of the Continental Army, for his in bringing about British evacuation of Boston. During the next 12 years, the Continental Congress authorized anadditional six gold medals for Revolutionary military leaders.

To read the complete report, see:
Congressional Gold Medals: Background,Legislative Process, and Issues for Congress(https://fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R45101.pdf)