When the final out is recorded and the winning team takes the field, one symbol of excellence is hoisted into the air: the Commissioner’s Trophy. This gleaming embodiment of baseball supremacy is the official name for the World Series trophy, a prize unlike any other in professional sports. Understanding what this award is called and the history behind its design provides a deeper appreciation for the culmination of a grueling season.
The Official Designation
The straightforward answer to "what is the world series trophy called" is the Commissioner’s Trophy. Unlike the Vince Lombardi Trophy in the NFL or the Larry O’Brien Trophy in the NBA, the Commissioner’s Trophy is unique because it is not named after a former player or owner. Instead, it is named for the title of the league’s chief executive, the Commissioner of Baseball. This name was formally adopted in 1983, though the trophy itself has been awarded under various guises since 1967.
A History of Evolving Design
The trophy presented today is actually the third version of the award. The original design, introduced in 1967, featured a silver baseball atop a golden sphere. This was replaced in 1977 by a more intricate design that added a golden globe surrounded by silver baseball bats, interlaced with the American and National League flags. The current version, which debuted in 1983, refined this look, creating the iconic tall, slender trophy that stands three feet tall and weighs in at roughly 30 pounds.
Craftsmanship and Composition
Weighing in at approximately 30 pounds and standing 30 inches tall, the Commissioner’s Trophy is a sight to behold. It is handcrafted by the renowned trophy company Tiffany & Co., using sterling silver and vermeil. vermeil is a gilding process where gold is applied to a silver base. The trophy is not made of solid gold, but the amount of silver and gold plating used makes it a valuable piece of artistry, with an estimated worth of millions of dollars.
One-of-a-Kind Personalization
What truly sets the Commissioner’s Trophy apart from other championship awards is its customization. After a team wins the World Series, the names of every player, coach, and executive associated with that franchise are meticulously engraved onto the trophy’s base. This practice began in 1977, and as a result, the trophy grows heavier and more crowded with text over the decades. It serves as a permanent, evolving record of the franchise’s golden era, making each iteration completely unique to that specific team and year.
Beyond the Name: Cultural Significance
While the question of "what is the world series trophy called" is simple, the answer carries immense weight within the sport and beyond. It is the ultimate prize in baseball, the culmination of a 162-game regular season and a hard-fought playoff gauntlet. The image of the gleaming silver trophy being lifted by a jubilant captain is synonymous with baseball excellence and is recognized instantly by fans around the globe.
