The world's best golfers will compete for the famous Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale this weekend. But why do winners of The Open receive this iconic trophy? The history dates back to the 19th century.
Original Prize: The Challenge Belt
The original prize for golf's oldest championship was a Moroccan leather belt, not a traditional trophy. This Challenge Belt was permanently awarded to Tom Morris Jr. in 1870 after he won the tournament for a third consecutive year. This left organizers without an award to present.
Creation of the Claret Jug
In 1872, three host clubs commissioned a new silver claret jug. Tom Kidd was the first to physically receive it in 1873, but Tom Morris Jr.'s name was the first engraved on the silver. The current Claret Jug was first awarded to Walter Hagen for winning The Open in 1928. Winners must return the trophy before the next year's Open but receive a full-size replica to keep permanently.
Replicas and Display
Three official replicas exist: one in the R&A World Golf Museum at St Andrews and two used for travelling exhibitions. This weekend at Royal Birkdale, the world's top golfers will battle for the real prize in the final major of the year.
