In 1968, Tommie Smith won Olympic gold with a victory in the Track and Field 200-meters. Today, the former athlete and retire college teacher is auctioning off his Olympic medal. Speculation has the minimum bid starting at $250,000. Smith claims he is not in financial trouble, but rather he wants the money to fund a community service project. It’s his medal and he can do with it as he wishes. Here’s the question, why would anyone buy an Olympic medal he/she did not earn?
Ayanda B-Online
ReplyDeleteIt's seems that these days in time that everything is money driven. First of all I don't see why he would want to sale his prized possession gold medal that he earned. At the end of the day it's his medal and if someone wants to purchase the medal it's their choice. Some people collect things so that may be the motivation for buying it. Of course they didn't earn it but it seem to be a gesture to sale it and give back to the community, but why now if you're not financially strapped.
Courtenay Seay-online
ReplyDeleteI think the fact that this gentleman wants so sell his medal to benefit the community is a highly commendable thing. He is taking something that he earned with great pride, but also holds no real function aside from sitting on a shelf and turning it into a valuable tool for his community. I am sure he will not have a hard time selling it. Many people collect many different things for many different reasons. Some people collect books, some people collect plates, and I suppose some people collect medals. We are collectors by nature. We do it for pleasure, knowledge, recognition, relaxation, nostalgia and a variety of different reasons.
I know that I personally would not want an Olympic metal I did not earn myself. But I think the reason someone would want it would be because of what it represents. The Olympics is a well esteemed event that is loved by millions all over the world. It is a time where people put all their differences aside and focus on the love of athletics and different sports. Maybe the person who is buying it believes one day it will be worth more and make a profit himself.
ReplyDeleteDenise Miller- Online student
In response to Courtney Sean- online
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you say that we are collectors by nature. I come from a family that collects antiques and coins. There is so much history in the antiques we have found. One day that Olympic metal may be worth more than $250,000!
Denise Miller- Online student
Rachel Hudson Online
ReplyDeleteI think that it is a great thing that this person wants to sell his hard earned medal to have money for the community. I don’t however; understand why he would want to sell something that he worked so hard to get in the first place. Personally, I would never do it. Why someone would want to buy something that they never earned is beyond me. I guess they would just like to say that they have it in their possession. It would be kind of cool I guess to own something like that but it would never mean as much to the individual who bought it because they never earned it.
BrendanB tues thurs
ReplyDeleteThe reason some one would buy a olympic gold medalis because its a olympic gold medal not many people have one. Even if they did not earn it the medal is still a prized possesion and could bring joy to someone. Also if the guy selling says the money he earns is for a community service organization then why does it matter cause whoever buys it is basically funding the organization so i guess you could say they are earning a gold medal for doing something good for the community.
Angelyn A. Online
ReplyDeleteAfter reading a bit more on this subject, I learned that not only did he win this metal during the Mexico City Games, but he and American teammate John Carlos did something very courageous this day. During the Star-Spangled Banner, both men raised a gloved fist in opposition of racism in America. For them to have done this in 1968 took a great deal of courage and guts.
I can imagine that a person would want to purchase this metal not only because of symbolizes the coming together of the world in the spirit of Olympic Games, but because it stands for so much more. It was worn by a very brave man who stood up for what be believed in for the betterment of people who were being oppressed. This value goes far and beyond any monetary value in my book.
Angelyn A. Online in response to Denise Miller Online
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you when you said that someone would want to have the metal for what it represents. The Olymipcs are a great time in the world, where we can all put differences aside and play a good game. To have something like this metal that represents this awesome time in history would be a great thing.
Nicole L./Online
ReplyDeleteIt would be an honor to be the owner of a gold medal regardless of if it was earned or purchased. People in general want a piece of history if they cannot be a part of it. I'm sure many of us have something of historical memorabilia whether it's of value or not. The individual who purchases this gold medal will own what few have and that thrills a lot of people, especially collectors. In addition, there are good people out there (with the money) that may not necessarily be interested in the gold medal in particular but the great cause it's going toward. For that reason alone they'll have an acceptable reason to be the new owner.
Ayanda B.-Online in response to Nicole L./Online
ReplyDeleteI agree with that due to people wanting to be a part of something especially history. If I had the money I would purchase something of value that I believe in. I'm very sure if someone purchase the medal that they have a valid reason for wanting it.
Sabrina M.
ReplyDeleteI suppose some reasons for buying a gold medal might be for monetary benefits or to add it to some sort of collection. In addition to those reasons, I think that some people would purchase the gold medal because of what it signifies. Perhaps the person who is buying the medal is an aspiring athlete and feels that owning a gold medal won at the Olympics would motivate them to train to the best of their ability for a competition (or maybe they believe it’s a good luck charm). Whether or not they are an athlete, the medal represents the greatest achievement that one can earn at the Olympics, which could motivate the buyer to excel in their field in order to be the best that they can be. If they can work hard enough in what they are doing, one day they might earn something more meaningful to themselves than a gold medal.
Tracey Bailey....I agree ...WHY would anyone buy a medtal that he never earned on his own? I guess just to say he/she was able to buy someone famous items. I think in this case that would be stupid to buy a gold metal that you yourself never put the workin to get it.
ReplyDeleteFranklin chapman - online
ReplyDeleteI would say that some people are obsessed with others and the achievements of others rather than their own achievements, so they want to invest in the other's achievements, and collect it. This mis similar to how some people buy football helmets, idols, jerseys , and other various items, to celebrate their favorites. If a person gets an authentic jersey off of a football player, he can sell it for a nice profit, or collect it, but in reality its only a jersey nothing more, so this is the same situation as the medal , its a medal nothing more, but with him being idolized by the buyer, this is what gives the buyer the drive to spend so much. And as for him selling it, his victory is already established and is famous, he dosent really need a trophy to show it, with it being such a well-known thing.
Chelsea J.-Online
ReplyDeleteI cannot fathom why someone would want to spend money on a medal that they did not earn. Especially for $250,000. However, if it is a piece of Civil Rights history, it has more value.
Perhaps it would be bought for a museum. Perhaps the buyer would be someone who remembers the event and wants that piece of history. Perhaps, like it has been stated before, there is a huge market of collectors that want something like this. Or perhaps there are way too many people with that much money that can spend it on something like that.
You better believe if I had $250,000 lying around it wouldn't be going towards something I put in a glass case in my home.
Jessica c.
ReplyDeleteAt first I was going to say I have no idea why somebody would that medal. Then I thought. They would buy it so that in a year or so they could turn right around and try and sell it. Or maybe they new Tommie and want it for sentimental value. I personal wouldn't want an Olympic medal that I did not win.
Jessica c. Response to Chelsea J.
ReplyDeleteI so agree with you. I wouldn't spend that much money on something I could never touch or wear, I mean if you buy it it's obviously going to be put in a case, and there are many other things to do with that much money.
There are all kinds of collectors and fans in this world. People will collect ANYTHING, and Olympics memorabilia is extremely collectable. Personally, I own a piece of the Olympic track from the 1996 olympics, and a four-seat section from the Olympic stadium.
ReplyDeleteAndrew Wiles CRN#20199
The Olympics coming to my city was very exciting, and I wanted to keep some actual items from the historic event. The same may go for someone else. There will be someone in the world who feels they need to add this gold medal to their collection, and whether people want to believe it or not, it WILL sell. The fact that it is going to a good cause will make it easier to sell as well.
franklin chapman- online
ReplyDeletein response to Sabrina M.
I agree that it is probably for someone's personal collection, but also it does represent a previous victory that isn't accomplished by many, so by them owning the medal, they are holding a token of victory, why they would want that thopugh, may be to like you said better themselves, and use it as a motivational thing, or they may also simply idolize him, its could actually be for a multitude of things, although physically it is just a medal, it still signifies alot, and may be very meaningful to a certain individual.
Brian F. Online
ReplyDeleteAn olympic medal is quite the item and not many people in the world ever even have a chance to touch one. Collectors of all sorts are constantly looking for the next item to add to a collection to make it significantly better, and I must say an Olympic Gold medal does make a collection better, if thats your thing. I believe that someone who has had this medal for this long just simply sees it as another item laying around collecting dust and may just want to get rid of it. On the other hand, to us non olympic people, it's a huge deal and wonder what the heck he is thinking, money issues sure do seem to be the first thing that come to mind in this case. All in all its his medal and he will do what he pleases with it, I mean his name is in the books, the medal is just a physical reminder of his accomplishments!
Brian F. Online
ReplyDeleteIn Response to Rachel Hudson
I agree that if the true motive behind it is to find a community service project its a great thing he is doing. As for the person buying it, it will never represent one ounce of the hard work, determination, and desire that was put into winning the medal, but to someone the simple fact of saying hey i own a gold medal from the Olympics is enough to spend over $250,000, so more power to them and bing able to blow that kind of money on something like that.
Jamie K. Online
ReplyDeleteI personally would never buy an olympic gold medal for myself. I did not earn it, so why would I want it? I believe it is his medal to show of his accomplishments and he should want to keep something like that for himself especially if he is not struggling financially! But at the end of the day, it is his posession and he can do whatever he wants with it. He obviously doesn't care too much about the medal, but I think its a very nice thing for him to fund a community service project. Because, after all community service is awesome for the economy and allows people everywhere to join togethere and make this a better environment! But to answer the question, I don't think anyone would want that especially for that kind of money!
Jamie K. Online In response to Chelsea J.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with you 100%. I would never spend that type of money on something like that. If anyone is going to buy it they should put it in a museum! It doesn't make sense to buy something for $250,000 just to be put in a glass case! good point!
Lindsey Miller
ReplyDeleteI can understand why he is selling the medal to fund a community project and i have no problem with that. And i can understand why someone would want to buy it. Maybe someone is a huge fan and collector and wants this item as a prize for his memory? Not everyone is capable of winning such a medal so some life vicariously through the lives of others. I think this is why someone would buy it and i feel that it is nice that the money will be used for a good cause.
Jillian G
ReplyDeleteI dont exactly see why anyone would buy it unless your a huge fan and have nothing better than to waste your money on a metal that someone else earned. If it was me and it was my metal i would not sell it, i would save it, i see it as an accomplishment, but on the other hand it is going to a good cause. Its obvious that tommie has good intentions.
Natashia F. Online
ReplyDeletePersonally, I wouldn't find value in a medal that someone else earned, regardless of what was accomplished to earn it. Not only do I consider it completely pointless to buy something that someone else earned, but spending $250,000 on something like that? That's just silly. Although it may be a contribution to a good cause, I think it would be more productive and make more sense to take donations.
Natashia F. Online
ReplyDelete***IN RESPONSE TO DENISE M.
I think it is very true that representation is a big part of what possesses people to buy things like this. To some people, this may seem silly, but to others: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to possess something that millions have looked arrayed over.
Lisa Womack-online
ReplyDeleteWell put Lindsey Miller!
I also think its good that the money will be used for something productive! If he doesn't want it, why not sell it? It's just collecting dust! I'm sure a fan of his or the olympics in general, or a collector would like to purchase the peice. An old olympic medal isn't a common item you can purchase everyday, most people have to work very hard for it!
LaVette McDowell-Online
ReplyDeleteI believe he feels he has nothing to prove to anyone. He knows what he accomplished and where he made that accomplishment. The idea that he wants to use the money towards a community service project, even if he wanted to use the money for his own pleasure, it's his prerogative. He can sell it to whomever, whenever. Sometimes you do things on a whim or there may be an underlying reason behind it, and if there is let him do what he wants with his medal. He earned it, that's why we have the libraries and technology now, to look those things up if we choose to look for him in that way.
I totally agree with franklin chapman online
ReplyDeletethe concept applies to those who buy football jerseys and that kind of stuff. if you are a collector it will have meaning to you , but it hus much more meaningto the person who earned it. i dont have a problem with someone buying someone elses medal because who knows, it might hold $250,000 sentimental value to them. personally i wouldnt. but if i were a millionaire and it was for a good cause i would definately go for it.
i think its of value though, owing to the fact that he stood and for civil rights and the olympics was in 1968. its probably different from the medals they give now so it would mean much.
Chelsea J.-Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Lindsey Miller and basically everyone else supporting this because it's going to a good cause:
To me, it doesn't matter why he's selling it. If it's going to the community, great! But if he was in financial trouble and needed to sell something, and he could get $250,000 for it, then why not? His motive for selling this thing shouldn't even be an issue. If I needed some money for whatever reason, and saw that I had this dusty thing that sits around my house and people would pay $250,000, by all means! Give me that money!
I agree with all of you that it's great he's giving it towards a community project, but I don't think that's necessarily a huge point here.
Ann M- on line student.
ReplyDeleteI believe Mr. Smith is doing a honorable thing by selling his medal to fund a community service project. After 48 years, he probably thinks it would better serve the community thought this project. Also, why not now? At least he can have a say in the matter, and see the good it does. It is very likely also that if/when he dies, it would be sold anyway. A retired teacher doesnt receive much in social security.
Why would someone buy this medal? This world is full of millionaires who collects "items", whether it is painting, antiques, clothings of famous, deceased persons, coins etc. The satisfaction is in "ownership", not the sweat of earning it. This is a priceless item, because of it's history and age and it cannot be duplicated.
Ann M. response to Angelyn A.-on line
ReplyDeleteThank you for doing the research on this medal. I though the name sound familiar. I agree with you that the buyer sees value in this "piece of history". This was a critical day and time in America' history and I hope that in the future, the buyer will share this medal with the world again instead of it being a show piece for his families and friends alone.
Rachel Hudson Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Ann M- on line student
You raise a very interesting point. I never really stopped to think that it would perhaps be priceless to someone who is able to afford it like that. I still don’t understand why someone would want to buy it though because I would only personally want to own something like that if I had earned it. But I guess it just goes to show you that you never know what would be valuable to another person.
Kourtney C..ONLINE..
ReplyDeleteThe same reason why some one would buy micheal jordans used sneakers he wore in a championship game. Collector items are a good investment but I would not dare to spend 250,000 on a gold metal for one that I did not earn and two if I couldn't wear EVERYDAY. In the same token why not just Keep the Metal and raise money through community service since it is a "community service project"?that would mean much more to the community than that.
Angela A.
ReplyDeleteThere's lots of reasons.... Maybe you know Tommy. Maybe you want to fund his community project. Maybe you were the Silver Medal winner! Maybe its to own a piece of history that very few people on this earth ever get to see, much less touch and show off like a piece of art.
Kavitha G.
ReplyDeleteIf Tommie Smith wants to auction off his Olympic gold medal that he was awarded with in 1968 for track and field 200-meters then that’s his choice. If I had 250,000 dollars then I would purchase the gold medal and sell it with a higher price. Obviously it is worth an enormous amount money if asking price is 250,000. To answer your question that would be one of the reasons why someone would buy this Olympic medal.
Courtenay Seay _online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Frank Chapman
"And as for him selling it, his victory is already established and is famous, he dosent really need a trophy to show it, with it being such a well-known thing. "
I understand the argument that if you work that hard to earn something so valuable, you should keep it. However, material things are still material things. The medal he earned holds less significance than the actual title he earned. By selling it, he is only selling the material object and not the recognition he earned and deserves. In turn, an entire community profits from something that might otherwise be collecting dust.
Robert P.-online
ReplyDeleteSome people have more money than they know what to do with. Buying an item like this is another way to show that they have money. In addition, an Olympic medal is unique. So is a Super Bowl ring, a Heisman trophy, or a National Championship ring. Each of these items represents a moment in history: a winner, greatness. They all fit nicely in a sports memorabilia room.
Peggy A:on-line
ReplyDeleteThe question is: why would anybody buy an Olympic Gold medal he did not earn? Well, my answer is: the same reason someone would buy a valuable painting or piece of art that he did not paint or create. Owning a Van Gogh, Picasso or Monet that was not painted by you would not seem any more ridiculous than owning a gold medal that was not won by you. The artists themselves go through grueling processes to paint one masterpiece; and the athlete must train and discipline themselves, too; even though the process may be different, the outcome is similar...achievement. Art is inevitably very subjective. This would probably be the case with anyone who would want to purchase a gold medal; it would most likely be viewed as art.
Peggy A/on-line
ReplyDeleteIn response to Courtney C.
You mentioned that keeping the medal would be better than opposed to selling it and raising the money for the community service projects. I do agree. With his reputation as an Olympic gold medalist he would probably have plenty of connections and several avenues in which to raise probably more than $250,000.
LaVette McDowell-Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Denise Miller
I agree with you. I wouldn't want a medal that I didn't earn either. Like you said it could be kept just in case the value of it became more in the future. Like someone else said it could just be a collectable for someone. The person that buys it may just want to help him with his idea of a community service project. He could be selling it because even though he wants to help the community, he wouldn't have to come out of his own pocket with the money.
Ronesia I.- Online
ReplyDeleteI think it's great that Mr. Smith is using the money for a community project versus using the money for recreational use. I believe someone would buy this to either sell it at a higher price or to frame this valuable medal. This medal is a piece of history.
Ronesia I.- Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Peggy A.- Online
I agree with you 100%. The comparison between artwork and the medal was great:) These people worked hard for their achievements. Many times others(the buyers) want to have a piece of this and maybe pass it down to someone else in their family.
Nathan Fawcett
ReplyDeleteOne would assume that the most likely reason is recognition for Tommie Smith. There is a chance, however, they want it to counterfactually accredit themselves.
Timmy T.
ReplyDeleteReasoning why people would purchase the medal when they didn't earn it is like someone that is obsessed with a celebrity and they'd buy that celebrity's underwear or jar of saliva and so on. That is why some people would want to purchase the medal because they may be completely obsessed with this man.
David F. Online
ReplyDeleteI don't have a clue as to why anyone would want to purchase an olympic gold medal that was won by someone else. I would never do such a thing. The thing that makes medals and rewards so precious is the sentimental value. The medal would not be of any significance to me because I did not win it. That is the reason the that I would never purchase a gold medal that was won by someone else. The article also stated that started bid may be as much as $250,000. Thats just ridiculous and is another reason that I would not purchase someone elses gold medal. There are far better things that I could spend $250,000 on. Before I would spend that much a someone elses gold medal I would give the money to charity. With our high unemployment levels, there are plenty of people that need food on their table, more than I need someone elses gold medal.
David F. Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Jamie K.
I would really like to know what would make a person sell an Olympic Gold Medal if he is not having financial trouble. I think that has to be a lie. Maybe he is ashamed to admit it.
Lynn - Online
ReplyDeleteI think someone would buy an Olympic medal that they did not earn as a souvenir. Maybe they are a fan of his, or of the sport, or of Olympics in general. It would be like owning a piece of history. Maybe they are an athlete, or former athlete, and their aspirations were to win a gold Olympic medal, but never did. I would think that whoever purchases it would probably own other Olympic memorabilia already.
In response to Angelyn
ReplyDeleteLynn - Online
That was smart of you to look up the history of this man and his medal. I think you may have a point; someone may know this history and want to buy the medal for that reason, which has nothing really to do with Olympics or sports, but what this man stood for.
Trevor B. - Online
ReplyDeleteI think that someone would want to buy this because it's a Gold Medal from the Olympics! Who wouldn't want to have one? I know I would love to have one even if I didn't earn it. It seems somewhat patriotic if you sit back and think about it. He had won that medal for his country, and if someone were to buy that medal it would be a symbol of greatness for his country. However, it would obviously lose the personal attachment to the medal, but who cares? You have a gold medal, made of GOLD!
Trevor B. - Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Peggy A.
I love the fact that you compared the medal to artwork. It made perfect sense and a great analogy. I completely agree with you.
Trevor B. - Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Natashia
I have to disagree respectively. I think that the value is not gone just because the person who buys the medal didn't earn it. The medal is always going to be a part of history that no one can take away from it. It was the best honor of that sport in the Olympics. Just because you didn't win it doesn't mean that the medal is worthless now.
Kourtney c...online
ReplyDeleteIn response to lynn..I disagree he is selling the medal for money not giving the medal away to his number one fan. The medal would be worthless in a sense.
Brian B TTR 6pm
ReplyDeleteI think that people would want to buy a gold metal because of the fact that it belonged to someone that is essentially going to go down in history for their accomplishments. For example, there are people trying to purchase a glove that belonged to Michael Jackson, why? Because they want a piece of someone that was very influential in history. The value of this medal is more than what meets the eye. It has to do with the work and dedication it took for the original owner to win it. Why is the Declaration of Independence so important that they have locked and more secure than anything in the US? I mean, all the people who signed are dead now, right?
Lauren G.-Online
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I think that because he wants to sell his medal because he wants to benefit a service project, is wonderful. The gold medal is just going to lie around his house anyways. He will always have the memory of winning the olympics in his mind. I think someone would want to by a medal he/she did not earn because maybe he/she might want to make a collection of rare items. You never know. Or maybe, this person really wants to support the service project Smith is funding. The person buying the medal might want to support the project and he/she might have a passion for whatever the project might be. He/she might consider it an honor to help supply the funds for the certain project.
To respond to Courtenay Seay:
I would absolutely agree with you! I think him selling the medal is a highly commendable thing. It will serve a better purpose for serving the community than sitting on a shelf. I also believe that he will not have a hard time selling it. People do collect interesting things lately.
There is a huge market for Sports Memorabilia in this country, so the fact that someone could buy this medal even though they didn't earn it is a non-issue in my opinion. What I think we should be talking about is the fact that this man earned a gold medal being great at what he something he loved on the biggest stage in the world, and he is willing to give it up in order to do something to benefit the people in his community. What an unselfish, honorable gesture. I really wish more atheletes these days would have the same character. Imagine the communities would be changed. My hope in this situation is that whoever buys this gold medal would turn around and donate it to the community center to be put on display!
ReplyDeleteCourtney B- Online
ReplyDeleteI would not want an olympic medal that I did not earn, however, if I were into collecting such items this would be something I would most likely want. I respect him for selling something that was dear to him to help out the community. He may or may not be having financial problems. Thats his personal matter and he should be able to do what he wants with his medal. Either way he's helping out the community no matter what his reasons for selling his medal are.
Courtney B.- Online
ReplyDeleteIn response Peggy A.:
I completely agree with you. That is a very interesting way to look at it. It made sense and explained the entire situation very well.
Christopher P.
ReplyDeleteI don’t think it matters if you earned it. For someone that is a huge fan of the Olympics my guess is that this is a great collector’s piece. I’m sure that there is a Chicago Bears fan out there that would buy their Super Bowl trophy for that much. Some people like to collect sports memorabilia and spend a lot of money doing it. I don’t understand it, but if I had $250,000 lying around and nothing to spend it on I guess this would be something nice to get. I don’t live that kind of lifestyle but I’m sure that there are people who do that enjoy collecting and would want something like this.
Chase B.
ReplyDeletemore than likely, for collectors purposes. To say "i have this" is to gain minuscule renown in ones community. if a fan of this man wants his medal. then so be it. at least the money is not being hoarded by the man.
Ashley F. –Online 10/21/10
ReplyDeleteTommi Smith earned his gold medal proudly. I feel like it is irrelevant of why he wants to sell it, but it is more honorable that he is donating the earnings towards the community, and bettering other people’s lives. The question is, at what expense? A gold medal is just that, a gold medal. It is a material object, and nothing more. It is memorabilia for a great accomplishment in his life. He may view material objects much like I do, it’s just clutter and junk that collects dust on the mantle. He has pictures and memories of his achievement; he doesn’t need an object to remind him. Why not use it to help others? I see absolutely nothing wrong with it. There are tons of collectors out there that would love to have that piece of gold, and are willing to pay good money for it. People are always out to make a dollar, and the Olympics represent something worldwide, and there are very few tokens that can be wanted by all points of the world. It will be worth even more later in time. It is a fundraiser, and I think it is wonderful. One man’s junk, is another man’s pleasure.
Ashley F.—Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Heather:
What a wonderful idea! I couldn’t agree more! That would be a wonderful token to have displayed in a community center. It sends the message, “Look at what this man did for HIS community, what can you do for YOURS?” How could anyone ever judge such a selfless act? It is a chain event, and so many other wonderful things could come out of this.
Amanda Caputo-Online
ReplyDeleteI think that someone will buy an Olympic medal he/she did not earn because they can say that they have something that not many people have. I also think that they would buy it because the money is going to a community and not for personal use. The person that buys it really just wants it because not many people have an Olympic medal and they want something that not many people have so they can show it off.
Amanda Caputo- Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Chase B.
I agree with you that people would buy it for collector’s purposes and to say that they have it. I agree also that if his fans want the medal then it should not matter.
LeQuise C.-Online
ReplyDeleteHis motives can be commendable but they can also be a little skeptical. If he wants to sell his medal to fund a community service project thats fine, but maybe he dosen't need to do that community service right now if he needs to sell a medal to fund it in the first place. It lends the question, would he do the community service project if he didn't have the medal to sell in the first place? As far as people wanting to by the medal itself, I feel that people will always think they will have something that no one else can buy or have. When they realize that they have the upper hand on someone they feel like they have the power. Chances are people are looking at it as an "investment" for retiring or something. To be quite honest I don't know who Tommie Smith is anyway, and I doubt not many people do unless your a die hard track fan. If people want to buy items that may or may not be worth anything then who am I to say otherwise
LeQuise C-Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Natasia,
I agree with you. I feel that if he wanted to sell the medal then thats fine, but why is the price tag for it so high. He would probably do better with donations for the community, because there is no guarantee that he will get the $250,000 for the medal anyway. So if he dosen't get it will the project be able to go on or not? At least by taking donations you are bound to wind up with something.
Nicole L./Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Heather:
I love your way of viewing this issue we were given. I also believe that more athletes and celebrities should consider using their fame and wealth to benefit their communities. We'd live in a much better society if those making millions per year weren't so selfish. The character of Mr. Smith shines through in his willingness to give up his prized Olympic medal. Hopefully you're right and the person who has the money to purchase this medal will then commemorate Mr. Smith by donating it to the community center.
I would assume that a buyer would have a memory and a longing to relive the past that is associated with the piece (evidentially there is). Or that some rich guy would just like to add it to his Sports-Memorbilia Collection.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't condemn the owner for selling it for other reasons. Afterall, it has been 40years and you can make a lot of NEW memories with $250,000.
In response to Angelyn A.
ReplyDeleteYour extra research on the topic was very insightful. I can see why you think the piece is priceless. Smith appears to be a man of honorable characteristics; he probably IS selling the piece to start a community service project.
Kristyn B. - Online
ReplyDeletePeople collect things. An Olympic medal is a piece of history that could be displayed in a personal or public area in order to teach people or to remember history. The medal could be used to commemorate the man who won it or it could be part of a collection of Olympic paraphernalia. It depends on if a single person or a corporation is buying it.
Kristyn B. – Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Brian B.
I agree with your thought that people want to own a piece of history. Maybe the new owner will think that they will be remembered too for owning the medal. In addition I agree that the medal is not just a material possession but also a memory cue. People see it and they remember what it is an award for and what was going on in history at the time. I am positively certain that once Smith is dead it will be worth more.
Whether it be home-run balls we never hit, props from movies we never acted in, or autographs of people we never met, we are a collector society by nature. Olympic collectibles are some of the most popular and sought-after collectibles in the market based on their availability (slim) and rareity (usually just one). They tie people to a certain moment in time and generally evoke similar memories of the event. The chance to win a gold medal is rare and the opportunity to purchase one is just as rare. The chance to be the only person to have a piece of history would definitely make it attractive to a buyer.
ReplyDeleteIn response to Denise Miller's response - Online student
ReplyDeleteThe medals are like giant coins and tell similar stories and bits of history. It makes sense for people with disposable income to want to collect!
Juliana W.
ReplyDeleteIn chapter 11, the book talks about economy. It mentions market forces, supply and demand, which means that things which are more rare are also more valuable. An Olympic gold medal is certainly rare. Even though whoever buys the medal won’t have earned it, it is still a very important historical piece. I bet that the person that buys the medal will be someone who collects Olympic memorabilia. The medal would certainly be a nice addition to a collection.
Maureen O. online
ReplyDeleteTommie has good intentions for selling a Gold medal that symbolizes his hardwork and determination. But for the person buying it, I keep thinking of one good reson why he or she will want to buy someone else's hardwork. The only reason I can think of is, since Tommie said the money is going to charity, maybe that is what motivates him.
Maureen O. online in response to Juliana
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you, because people that collect olympic memorabilia are ready to pay any amount of money just to get a memorable medal like Tommies, this is because it is also a piece of history.
Ashley T.
ReplyDeleteAlthough Tommie is using his Olympic Gold medal money for a good cause I do not see how he is able to sell them. And for the person buying it they did not work hard for something like that. But I could see it being maybe whoever buys it was a big fan and can have it as a memory for his hard work.
Margaret F.
ReplyDeleteThere are several reasons I think a person would purchase an Olympic Gold Medal he/she hasn't earned. One would be because of who it belong to and he/she just wants a memorabilia of that person. Another reason would be that he/she just wants to act like it's their's and act like they worked hard for it when in fact he/she only purchased someone else's hard work.
Margaret F.-online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Chadwick M.
I totally agree with you people are always trying to hold on to some part of history and if purchasing a Olympic Gold Medal does it for someone than who are we to disagree?
linda s
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this article there is no disscussion about its his medal and if he wants to sell let, let him. And for the person who buys it. Thats there buisness, some people collect things different than others,maybe they just want to have it to say they have one.
linda s.
ReplyDeletein response to chadwick m.
I agree with you on this subject. If someone wants to by it let them and if they have 250,000.00 to spend on a gold medal then who are we to stop them.
Zach Bragg T/R 6-8pm
ReplyDeleteWhy not? People will buy any and everything, people love junk, example: that show hoarders. That medal has no use besides reminding him what a great job he did, so if he doesn't mind selling it then fine, he is doing it for a good reason so, if people want something like this then fine, at least its better than buying something like some celebrities used underwear or something.
LuShawna G.-online
ReplyDeleteI don't see why he would want to sell his medal if its only for "funding" when you can always find funding in other ways. So just from the information that was received on this it seems to me that he is having financial problems and might not want other to know. There really would be no use of it to anyone else. The only good they would get from it is selling it again to try and make additional money or some individuals are just collectors of keepsake items.
LuShawna G.-online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Heather
I agree that what he is stating he needs the funding for is a good cause. But realistically
there are so many other means of getting funding for projects especially if it is something for the community. Especially someone with his background meaning being a Olympic medalist, he probably would not have any problems receiving sponsorship or the funding that he is needing. Like I said I do believe that he is having financial problems and its something he is not wanting to get out. To me it all just doesn't sound right.
I personally would not want a medal that I did not earn but there are a numerous amount of people that like having something that others don't. This medal is not common and it represents something in American and world history. This is a item that needs to stay in the United States and should be owned by an American, since it was earned by an American.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Zach Bragg. I agree that the item is something of historic value and not someones underwear. I like the point you made and the statement.
ReplyDelete~ Katie H. (online) ~
ReplyDeleteThere are several reasons why someone would want to buy the Olympic medal, especially the medal of someone as noble as Tommie Smith. It really isn’t how much the medal is worth or even who earned it, which sets the value its more so what the medal stands for. In this case, the medal was a big milestone for the American civil rights movement. Tommie Smith and his fellow team mate raised their fists for black power and unity, it was very brave and brought a lot of media attention to what was going on in America. I would be honored to own this medal and I am sure a lot of people feel the same way. $250,000 is defiantly a lot of money to spend but given the history and even where the money is going to now, it’s worth it!
Beth M. - Online
ReplyDeleteWhy would anyone buy n Olympic medal he/she didn't earn? Such a question could have many responses. The first thing that come to my mind would be the one accredited in a museum via donation once purchased, to save a piece of history. It might be that the buyer has some type of Olympic collection and may have coached prior track and field or maybe even Tommie Smith. A buyer might make such purchase as an investment.
Beth M. - Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to LuShawna G.
If you think about it, maybe he is getting additional funding and this is his effort of helping from his perspective. Two hundred fifty thousand was just the starting bid, which in today's time is very little. Maybe Mr. Smith doesn't have financial problems, but maybe doesn't have $250k liquid available and feels like the medal can bring more than what he can contribute himself.
Atiya D. Online
ReplyDeletePeople like to have momentos of important milestones in their lives. Also, there are those who like to live vicariously through the accomplishments of others. Someone somewhere would love to have the feel of a genine olmypic medal against their skin who couldn't earn on of their own accord.
Atiya D. Online in Response to Sims, Billy
ReplyDeleteIf there was something you loved and craved the most in this world and there was someone who was selling a piece of that reality, I bet you would want it. You really can't say that you wouldn't want a medal someone else has earned because you are not experiencing the love or yearning perpetuated from said item. There is really no difference between buying a piece of memorbilia and a painting.
Andrew G. Online
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I have no idea why someone would want to own someone else's Olympic gold medal. I can understand wanting to own something like an astronauts moon rock or an archaeologists fossil of some kind, but an Olympic gold medal just seems ridiculous. The only reasons could be to show off how much money you have and that it is possible to own a gold medal without ever entering the Olympics. Or because some people really do lie about their past and like to tell others ridiculous stories like they're a gold medalist, so what better way than to buy an authentic gold medal? I suppose it could also be "for charity," and the buyer has the money, see's the owner needs help, so why not?
In response to Atiya, I agree completely that others like to live vicariously through others, and this is a perfect chance. Also to what Beth said, I wouldn't be surprised if it's some private collector who owns some kind of Olympic collection and is always looking to expand...but, doubtful.
Linda M. Online
ReplyDeleteQuiet possibly to help this guy fund his comunity project. While helping him they could help themselves. Because depending on the worth of the medal they could possible make more than the $250,000.
Linda M. Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Jessica C.
I agree maybe in a year of so it might be worth more.
~ Katie H. (online) in response to LuShawna G. (online) ~
ReplyDeleteYou said “The only good they would get from it is selling it again to try and make additional money.” I disagree, there is a lot of history in that medal and it would be a privilege to own it. Years from now as the world continues to grow and forget what we as a nation had to go through to get to where we are today, it would just be nice to have that constant reminder. It’s a symbol of our struggles and victory over the struggle.
Jessica Vanderbilt-Online
ReplyDeleteI personally wouldn't want an Olympic medal that belonged to someone else, and don't know anyone that would. It might be more than it is worth, but I am pretty sure he had it appraised. The person who ends up buying it either collects pieces like that. I think there is more to the story than what we have heard. Times are hard, and he is probably lieing about not being in financial trouble. Why would you see something like that. That is a life accomplishment and he is acting like it doesn't mean anything to him by selling it. There has to be more to it...
Jessica V- online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Juliana W.
I agree that could be a reason someone would buy it. Maybe that person as been to every Olympics event and collect pieces from each event. I didn't think about that. Good point.
Sharon W. online
ReplyDeleteAn Olympic gold medal is a prized possession, and not all athletes ever achieve such a feat. People idolize most successful athletes. For this reason, someone will purchase an auctioned gold medal for two reasons; as a collector, and to feel a close connection with his or her favorite athlete. I agree with courtenay that we are all collectors to an extent.
Anna G.- Online
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I really don't understand why he is selling it in the first place. That is something that many people would love to have and not to buy it, but to earn it. But, he is right. It is his medal and he can do whatever he wants with it and it is amazing that he is going to donate the money. I think someone would buy this medal simply as a collector's item. The Olympics is a HUGE event that many people would give anything to even attend one. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting a gold medal as a keepsake.
Anna G.- Online
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with Katie H. This medal is a great milestone and many people would love to have it. It is a big piece of history and knowing that it was in the palm of my hands, I would have some HUGE bragging rights!
Teresia K. Online.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all Tommie smith is selling the medal for a worth cause and thats very important.But when it come to his intended buyers,it must be someone who knows him or heard about him.One thing we have in this country is that most people idolize our atheletes and other celebrities.So i dont think it would be had for him to sell it.People would buy it for different reasons.May be for what it meant to them when he won it or probably hoping it will be worth more in a few years.
Teresia K.Online.
ReplyDeleteIn rsponse to Ashely F.
I totally agree with Ashley.This man is taking one of his variable possession to help the society.If we had more of these kind of people ,the world could be a better place.One does really need a medal to remind him that he won.The fact that he is doing this is all that matters. So go ahead ,help others thank God they are people willing to buy.
Kristien S. Online
ReplyDeleteIt's a piece of history, and some people enjoy collecting memorabilia. That the proceeds are going to fund a community project might be another incentive.
Kaila C.- Online
ReplyDeleteI believe that anyone who buys the medal is just doing it because they have way too much money. Although when I heard the reason I believe that someone may buy it just to support his cause. The person who buys this medal may not have earned it but the medal does not lose any value whether it with the person who earned it or not. This medal is part of history and I am sure that whoever buys it will treat it as that a symbol of our past.
Deborah G. Online
ReplyDeleteI do not see why someone would buy a medal that they did not earn. Some have so much money they would buy it to collect and maybe some want to keep it becuase they live the game. To sell your Medal is your choice but it is not every day that anyone can get a medal, i would want to keep mine.
Deborah G. online in Response to Kaila C. online
ReplyDeletei do agree that even though you did not recieve the medal your self, it does not loose the value of the medal.the world is money driven and anyone who has the money can almost get anything, even a medal.
Kaila C.-Online in response to Katie H. Online
ReplyDeleteThanks for the extra background in this blog it helped me make my comment. I totally agree that this is a piece of history that hopefully will be treated with as much care as it deserves.
Jennifer A. -online- inresponse to Brendan B
ReplyDeleteTues Thurs
I agree with you. The money will be used to help the community. Perhaps the buyer is a phianopist him/herself and wants to help that community.
Jennifer Ashley - online.
ReplyDeletePeople want to buy thing for all sorts of reasons. Perhaps this person sees it as an investment for his/ her future family. Perhaps, this person is just a big fan of the Olmpic games and will enjoy it as memorablia. Perhaps this person is just a wealthy philanthropist who was touched by this man's desire to help the community, so they want to help him see his dream.
Olugbenga A.Online
ReplyDeleteIn response Sharon W.
I think it's very honorable that he is putting his medal up for auction and donating the money to a good cause. Olympic athletes put years of effort into their sport for one chance to be the best and if this is how he wants to give back to the community, let him. This medal is a part of history and I think any collector would be lucky to have it. It is really a priceless piece of American memorabilia and if someone want to spend $250,000 on a gold medal then that is their choice.
JULIAN .E. – Online
ReplyDeleteThere are reasons why people do what they want to do. Buying an Olympic gold medal that you did not earn, does not mean you brought the gold medalist prestige. The very reason that Tammie smith want to sell his Olympic gold medal is a good reason for some to buy the gold medal in a way as to contribute to assisting Tammie smith with his charitable work to raise fund for community service project.
Anita D. Online
ReplyDeleteAccording to my personal views and opinions I would never buy someone's trophy nor medal, for the simple fact that I didn't win it.Even if I was to consider it, I would not pay over fifty cents but 250,000 I could get a couple of cars! The only way I could see someone doing it was if they thought of it as an autographed piece from a superstar, but I personally will never do it nor consider it, and can't really understand why someone would do it.
Steven Thompson- Online
ReplyDeletePeople buy things that doesn't belong to them for a couple of reasons. I believe the main reason to buy memorabilia is to be a part of history. Most peoples dream is to be remembered and i guess the second best is to have someones famous memorabilia. The second reason is to just say that you have something special and for bragging rights.
Steven Thompson- Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Kaila C.
I completely agree with you and how whoever buys this has way to much money. But whoever does by this will treat it well. What i don't get is why anyone would sell it in the first place. It represents all of the hard work you put in and an achievement in a your life.
Jonathan P Online
ReplyDeleteI think its quite simple. Olympic medals are a great collectors item because of what they represent. Someone's blood, sweat, and tears. Someone's hard word and determination to be great and most important they are part of American history. People collect all kinds of things for lots of different reasons. Why is it acceptable to collect baseball cards or shoes? Shoes is what i personally collect. It's all about history.
In response to Kaila C
Why is it that someone would have to have to much money to buy this? It's history and a great collectors item. Some people collect old paintings or old antiques. This is no different.
Nicholas L - Online
ReplyDeleteThe first thing I thought of when trying to decide how to respond to this question was, "Well I guess it would be nice to be able to show off a gold medal in your house." In my opinion, one huge reason to buy a gold medal is for the status symbolism it brings when you display it. Everyone wants to impress others and be envied - an Olympic gold medal does just that (even if you aren't the person to win it). Moving on from that, buying a piece of sports history can be sentimental as well. I know personally I love to collect autographed memorabilia of my favorite sports figures and display them for everyone to see. Those treasures are rarely ever as meaningful to others as they are for the owner, but it gives the owner a special sense of pride to be able to display something a personal hero once held so closely to them. I'm not sure how many die-hard Tommie Smith fans there are still out there, but fans of the Olympics would probably love to get their hands on an official gold medal from one of the events.
Kristien S. Online in response to Steven Thompson
ReplyDeleteI agree, but on the other hand he's already accomplished what he wanted. Had the medal for awhile, what's the point of holding onto it if he can do something that will benefit others and possibly have longer lasting effects.
Nicholas L - Online in response to Jonathan P
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with the aspect of what you described. Owning a piece of history as special as an Olympic medal is pretty cool in itself, even if you didn't win it. The symbolism is still there and it will still always represent a meaningful event in history.
Kenyetta C Online-
ReplyDeleteI believe someone could want to hold a piece of history. Not to walk around with the medal on their neck. If I was in a financial situation I would place a bid.
Amanda O Online
ReplyDeleteI believe people will want to buy it to help support his community service project. Since he is willingly giving up something that has meaning to him (and symbolizes a lot of hard work and accomplishment)I think people will be willing to help him by funding his project. Now, why someone would want a gold medal they didn't earn I don't really know. I suppose due to their not being a lot of them around it is novel and exciting to say you own one? I don't get it tho unless you are a big fan of his.
Amanda O Online in response to Margaret F
ReplyDelete"Another reason would be that he/she just wants to act like it's their's and act like they worked hard for it when in fact he/she only purchased someone else's hard work." I found this statement very interesting since it raises some questions. Why would someone spend so much money on this and then try to lie to others and say they earned it? Wouldn't it be obvious it isn't theirs? I think this is a real possibility but a sad statement as to what lengths people will go to to obtain admiration from others. It would also be ironic that he is selling it to do good if someone were to buy it to promote themselves. Wouldn't it be great for someone to buy it and then give it back to him?
Donnie F.
ReplyDeleteI personally would never have any reason to own one, but hey, let's face it, how often do you hear someone say, " HEY! wanna see my Olympic gold medal?" NEVER
Sure, it would be nice to think that someone is going to buy it strictly for the purpose of helping a community, but I believe that in the grand scheme of it all, the most likely reason for one to purchase it is more than likely for nothing more than bragging rights.
I guess if I was one trying to impress people and I had the money, I would buy it just to say Hey, bet you've never seen one of these before huh?"
Then again, if the sale of this medal really is going to go back into the community, then I applaud the seller.
Anita D Online
ReplyDeleteIn response to Anna G.
I agree with both you and Tommie it is his medal and he could do with it whatever he wants. It is for a worthy cause. Although I may see it as something stupid there are people out there that agree with me as well as think there is nothing wrong with buying a medal you didn't earn. After reading other views i agree it is also a memorable part of history.
Courtney F
ReplyDeleteMaybe this is just a materialistic thing that he doesn't really see that is that important to hold onto. Maybe his intentions are for a good cause. Gold metals come and go for some and thought it was more beneficial to contribute towards a charity.
Daria Glukhikh-online
ReplyDeleteI think selling an olympic medal is immoral. It is such a rare case for any athlete to got to the Olympics, represenr their country,AND win, that i don't understand why anyone would want to sell a medal. The cause is good, but there are many other ways he can help the comunity.
Daria Glukhikh - online
ReplyDeletein responce to Angela A.
I agree to all the reasons you have listed for buying it. I still think though, that selling a medal devalues the Olympics.
Sarah Thompson-online
ReplyDeleteIt seems as though his heart is in the right place if he is going to use the money to fund a community project. It is his medal and who are we to judge whether he should keep it or not. I guess someone that is a fan of him and his sport would want to buy it. Same as people that own famous baseball and football players jerseys and balls. If someone from the NFL wanted to sell their title ring Im sure plenty of people would pay big bucks to buy that. So what is the difference in selling an olympic gold medal?
Sarah Thompson-online
ReplyDeletein response to Brian F.
I agree that many avid collector's would view an olympic as quite a prize to add to any collection. Many would never understand his wanting to sell of the token of his accomplishment but I like how you pointed out that it is just a physical symbol. He knows what he has accomplished and it is "in the books". And we all do what we have to when money is an issue.
Emma A.
ReplyDeleteThe gentleman is broke, no one who has financial free would sell their life time achivement trophy.
Donald W. Online
ReplyDeleteI don't really know his motivation for selling his medal, but if he is telling the true that seems to be a nobel cause. I personally wouldn't want anyones medal unless they gave it to me themself for whatever reason. Otherwise it just wouldn't mean that much to me.
Madeline Cook
ReplyDeletePersonally, I really wouldn't see the benefit of owning an award for something I didn't earn myself, however collectors do this kind of stuff all the time. Take for example an avid olympic enthusist might want to purchase a piece of history in the form of this guy's gold metal, just as say a baseball fan might want to purchase a baseball that made a world record for a certain amount of home runs.
Angela R.
ReplyDeletePeople don't only own things to show others what they've done or as proof that they did something. They put value on items such as this olympic medal mainly because of who originall owned it. Almost like an autograph. Though this is one expensive autograph, it may be worth it to a big fan.
People would buy the olympic medal because its part of history. They might been a fan of Tommie Smith, and they want to own something that originaly was own by him. Or they want the medal so they can say the own an olympice medal
ReplyDeleteTaneshia C- Online
ReplyDeleteI think that he is broke and need the money from the medal to support himself. The story about using the money for a community project is just a cover up. Why would he sell this medal he earned at this point in time, to fund a project? If he wasn't broke he would have used some of his own money to fund this project. Arn't these medals personalized. I personally would not buy it, even if I had $ 250,000. I would rather donate this money to a charity. I guess this Is his way to ask for public assistance.