Archives of WHO

Numismatic Collection

5 medals representing a children's circle
WHO medals "Global Smallpox control, 1980

WHO has received and issued medals and coins throughout its history. They are issued to reward good deeds and to commemorate significant achievements. The collection contains a selection of these items which record the different landmark occasions commemorated by WHO. A few examples are presented below.

  • Medals of the Permanent Committee of the Office International d'Hygiène Publique (OIHP)
  • Medals awarded to WHO: "Bernadotte" awarded by the League of Red Cross Societies in 1950, and the "Adolfo Lutz", a médal awarded by Brazil in 1966
  • Commemorative medals issued by WHO to commemorate the inauguration of the new Headquarters building in 1966, the 25th anniversary of WHO in 1973 and the eradication of smallpox in 1980
  • Medals awarded by WHO: Léon Bernard Foundation Prize, Dr Parisod Foundation medal, Dr Shousha Foundation Prize
Gold medal symbolizing health
Medal "Better food for a healthier world"
Medal showing the arms of OIHP
Medal of the Standing Committee of OIHP, 1934
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