Extremely rare copper discus commemorating the Olympic Truce, one of five produced for the 32nd IOC meeting held in Athens, Greece in 1934. The discus measures 11″ in diameter and 1″ in depth, and features engraved inscriptions in Greek lettering; the center features the names of Greek figures Heracles, Iphitos, and Lycurgos, and the border reads (translated): “Greeks in Ancient times, organized Games in Olympia and at the same time declared truce.” In fine condition, with light scattered wear. Of the five examples made for this occasion, one lies in the Lausanne Olympic Museum, another in Ancient Olympia, and three were given to high-ranking officials of the time; this is one of the three VIP discuses.
In Greek mythology, many believe that Hercules, the son of Zeus and Alcmene, founded the Olympic Games and created the truce, which was to be carried out by mortal men. Namely, Iphitos, King of Elis, who was intent on breaking the incessant cycle of armed conflict that beset Ancient Greece in the ninth century BC. According to legend, he sought the counsel of the oracle of Delphi, who advised him to found a peaceful sporting competition, which would become none other than the Olympic Games. Iphitos had the support of fellow monarchs Cleisthenes of Pisa and Lycurgus of Sparta and signed a truce with them known as the ‘Ekecheira.’ As a result of the accord, all regional conflict came to an end every four years to allow the Games to take place, the first of them being staged in 776 BC.
Beginning seven days before the Olympic Games got underway and ending seven days after them, the Truce allowed athletes, artists, their families, and ordinary pilgrims to travel in total safety in order to participate in or attend the Games and then return home afterward. As the Games neared, the Truce was proclaimed and announced by citizens of Elis, who traveled across Greece to pass on the message.
In modern times, the Olympic Truce has been revived and is supported by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the United Nations (UN). The IOC officially promotes the idea of the truce and encourages all participating nations to observe it, and the United Nations General Assembly passes a resolution before each Olympic Games, calling for the observance of the Olympic Truce. While the modern Olympic Truce may not have the same direct impact as it did in ancient times, it serves as a symbolic reminder of the values of peace, unity, and sportsmanship that the Olympic Games represent. It highlights the potential for sports to bring people together and promote understanding among nations, even in times of conflict.
