What are Table Medals?

As it sounds, a table medal is too large to be worn around the neck like a medallion. They can be, and generally are, displayed on a wall, table top, desk, or in a cabinet.

The majority of the medals issued prior to the Civil War were not what is today considered a military medal. They did not have colored drapes or even ribbons attached for wear, they are considered "table medals" or medallions.

They were reserved and presented for important events.

As neither titles of nobility nor orders of knighthood exist in our country, Congress can bestow no higher distinction on an American citizen than to offer him the thanks of the nation, and to order that a medal be struck in his or her honor.