Introduction:

Engraved trophies, medals, and gifts are more than just token awards; they represent dedication, hard work, and proud moments in peoples lives. Whether displayed at home, in a clubhouse, or an office, keeping them in good condition and presenting them properly ensures they stay looking their best for generations to come. This guide looks at the best ways to store, display, and care for trophies and medals, whilst offering some practical advice to help you make an awesome display.

Choosing how to store and display trophies depends on a few things like the size of the collection, the space you have available, and the type of awards you’re storing/ showcasing. A good display should protect the awards while also making them  aesthetically appealing, rather than something that just gathers dust on a forgotten shelf in the spare bedroom or at the far corner of the clubhouse bar.

They keep out dust and provide a secure, enclosed space whilst allowing your trophies to take centre stage. Wooden display shelves also work well and can add a bit of character, especially in clubhouses where a traditional feel suits the space. Wall-mounted units are a good choice for tighter areas, helping to maximise space without compromising on visibility.

Even the best display will not look great if the trophies are covered in dust or tarnished. Keeping them clean and in good condition is just as important as the display itself.

For open shelves, dust is the biggest issue, so wiping trophies down weekly with a microfibre cloth helps prevent build-up. Glass cabinets are obviously better for keeping dust away, but it is still a good idea to give them a light clean now and then. Using a dust-repellent spray on glass surfaces can also help reduce static that attracts dust in the first place.

Trophies should always be handled with clean, dry hands, especially those with metal engraving, which can lose its shine if handled too much. For silver or gold trophies, using a mild metal polish and a soft cloth will help maintain their finish. Wooden bases, on the other hand, should be kept dry as any moisture can cause warping over time. Acrylic or plastic trophies are best cleaned with a gentle glass cleaner, as anything too harsh can lead to discolouration or scratches.

Medals require a bit of extra care, especially if they have intricate engraving or enamel details. Shadow boxes or display cases are ideal for keeping them safe while ensuring they stay on show. If medals are being stored in drawers, it is best to keep them in felt-lined compartments to avoid scratches and stop ribbons from tangling. Clubs with larger collections might find it useful to have a dedicated medal cabinet with pull-out trays, so everything stays organised and easy to access.

Trophy shields, which are often used for perpetual awards, should always be stored upright to avoid surface wear. Mounting them on angled stands or plaques keeps them in top condition and makes them a focal point in the collection.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when displaying trophies is cramming too many into one space. Instead, it is better to group them by size or type, ensuring the display does not look cluttered. Larger trophies should be placed at the back, with smaller ones arranged towards the front. Shields work well as a centrepiece, while medals look best in a framed display case or shadow box. Adding a club crest, framed photographs, or engraved plaques brings a personal touch and makes the display more engaging.

For clubs that want to include match-worn shirts, boots, or balls, these need to be arranged carefully so they complement the trophies rather than overpower them. Framing shirts in UV-protected glass cases prevents fading and keeps them looking pristine. Signed footballs or rugby balls should be displayed in acrylic cases, keeping them dust-free while ensuring they remain visible. Boots and other memorabilia, such as match programmes or historic newspaper clippings, work well in shadow boxes, adding a bit of depth and storytelling to the display.

In clubhouses, trophy walls are a great way to create a focal point. Different sections can be dedicated to various age groups, championship wins, or club legends, making it easy for visitors to appreciate the club’s history. Adding an honours board or a digital screen displaying past achievements can take the display to another level, making it interactive and informative.

The key to keeping trophies in excellent condition long-term is regular maintenance and a few simple precautions. Keeping them away from humidity and extreme temperatures helps prevent tarnishing, while silica gel packs placed inside cabinets can absorb excess moisture. It is also a good idea to check trophies every few months for any scratches or dullness, polishing them when needed.

For clubs that frequently transport trophies to different events, extra care is required. Wrapping them in soft cloths or foam padding before placing them in storage boxes reduces the risk of damage during transit. For particularly valuable or sentimental awards, custom presentation cases are worth investing in, ensuring they are properly protected while maintaining a professional look.

Conclusion

Trophies and memorabilia represent hard-earned achievements, so taking the time to store, display, and maintain them properly ensures they remain a lasting symbol of success. Whether in a clubhouse, school, or personal collection, a well-organised display not only keeps them looking great but also adds value by celebrating the journey behind each award.

For clubs and individuals looking to enhance their display with high-quality engraved trophies, medals, or custom presentation solutions, NE Trophies provides expert craftsmanship and tailored designs to help showcase achievements in style. Get in touch today to see how we can help.