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Claret Jug History
The Claret Jug, or the Golf Champion Trophy to give it its proper name, made its first appearance in 1872. Athough The Open Championship had begun in 1860, the original prize for the winner was a red leather belt with a silver buckle.
The winner could only keep this once they had won it three times which Young tom Morris did between 868 and 1870. Funds were secured to create a new trophy and the Claret jug was commissioned.
Claret jug trophies are a revered icon in the world of golf, with deep historical and cultural significance, especially in the UK. These iconic trophies are designed to resemble the famous Claret Jug awarded to the winner of The Open Championship, one of the oldest and most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. While the original Claret Jug is made from sterling silver, replicas and similar trophies come in various materials to suit different budgets, preferences, and occasions. Among these materials, nickel-plated metal, silver-plated finishes, pewter, and resin are commonly used to craft claret jug-inspired trophies for a range of golf tournaments and awards.
Nickel-Plated Metal Claret Jugs
Nickel-plated metal is a popular choice for claret jug trophies due to its durability, affordability, and sleek appearance. Nickel plating involves coating a base metal with a thin layer of nickel, which gives the trophy a shiny, corrosion-resistant surface that closely resembles silver. Unlike pure silver, nickel-plated metal is more resistant to tarnishing, making it a practical choice for clubs, tournaments, and personal awards that need to withstand frequent handling or display without losing their luster. Additionally, nickel plating provides a contemporary look at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible for smaller tournaments or clubs that still want to award an elegant, silver-like trophy.
Silver-Plated Claret Jugs
For a closer resemblance to the original Claret Jug, silver-plated claret jug trophies offer a more traditional look and feel. Silver plating is a process where a layer of silver is applied over a base metal, such as copper or brass, resulting in a high-quality, glossy finish that radiates sophistication and prestige. While silver-plated claret jugs do require occasional polishing to maintain their shine, they are less expensive than solid silver yet still maintain an aura of class and elegance, making them ideal for distinguished golf events or as personalized gifts for dedicated golfers. The craftsmanship on silver-plated claret jugs often includes intricate details and engravings, allowing for customization that echoes the legacy of The Open Championship's iconic trophy.
Pewter Claret Jugs
Pewter is another material commonly used for claret jug-style trophies. As an alloy that consists mostly of tin, pewter has a soft, silvery appearance that resembles antique silver. Pewter claret jugs have a warm, understated look and are relatively easy to engrave, allowing for detailed personalization. While pewter is softer than other metals and can develop a natural patina over time, this change can add to its appeal by giving the trophy a vintage, cherished look. Pewter is also lead-free and thus safe for decorative purposes. These trophies are valued for their traditional aesthetic and are often chosen by golf societies and clubs with an appreciation for the historic appeal of pewter’s slightly muted shine.
Golf Trophy Cups
Claret Jug Replica
When Young tom won again in 1872 the Claret Jug was not ready, so he had to wait until the following year to see his nameengraved on the new trophyalong with the following year's winner.
The original Claret Jug has been displayed in the Clubhouse at Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. andrews since 1928 when the new Claret Jug was produced. The winner returns the Claret Jug before the start of the following year's tournament and is given a replica.
How big is the Claret Jug?
The original Claret Jug was made by Mackay Cunningham & Co. of Edinberg and stands 20.75 inches (52.7cm) tall including the base. Weighing approxiamately 5.5 pounds (about 2.5kg), it is made from 92.5% sterling silver. The original claret jug was won by a total of 28 different golfers in its time.
Resin Moulded Claret Jugs
Resin is a more modern and versatile material for claret jug trophies, often used to create highly detailed designs at a lower cost. Resin-moulded claret jugs can be painted or finished to closely resemble metal, and some designs may incorporate metallic finishes or coatings to mimic silver or pewter. Resin trophies are typically lightweight, durable, and affordable, making them a popular choice for smaller tournaments, junior golf awards, or corporate events. The versatility of resin allows for creative shapes and designs that can mimic the look of more expensive materials, providing an attractive, low-maintenance option for organizations that want a high-quality trophy on a budget.
In summary, claret jug trophies in the UK come in a variety of materials, each with unique benefits. Nickel-plated metal, silver-plated finishes, pewter, and resin all contribute to the rich diversity of golf trophies available, allowing clubs, societies, and events to choose the perfect material that balances tradition, elegance, and affordability. Whether aiming for the authenticity of a silver finish or the practical appeal of resin, these claret jug trophies capture the essence of golfing prestige.