Paris 1924 Olympics – PAAVO Nurmi Coin in Capsule

This collection commemorates the centenary of the Games of the VIII Olympiad: the summer Olympic Games Paris 1924. Organised a century ago, this landmark event created enduring legacies that continue to this day, including the establishment of an Olympic village and the organisation of a closing ceremony with protocol elements similar to those we recognise today.

The city of Paris stands as a witness to this legacy through its historical buildings, such as the Olympic Stadium in Colombes, and the enduring passion for sports within its communities. By honoring these exceptional moments, Monnaie de Paris pays tribute to the Olympic heritage, recalling the values promoted by Pierre de Coubertin and renewing the pride of hosting the Olympic Games in Paris, in 2024, a hundred years later.

Beyond the emblem, Monnaie de Paris is honouring a major athlete of the 1924 Paris Games: Paavo Nurmi, whose medals will be on display at Monnaie de Paris during the exhibition “D’or, d’argent, de bronze. A history of the Olympic medal” from 26 March to 22 September 2024.

A great Finnish runner, left his mark on the 1924 Paris Games by winning five gold medals in athletics. Nicknamed “The Flying Finn”, Nurmi dominated the long-distance events, winning the 1,500 metres, the 5,000 metres and the individual cross-country race. His outstanding performance contributed to Finland’s rise on the world athletics scene and established Nurmi as one of the greatest athletes of all time.