In just over a week, the winner of the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest will be known. Since 2008, the winning artist and composer(s) receive a permanent official trophy. Just as the Eurovision Song Contest itself, the Eurovision-trophy has had a turbulent history.

Designed by glass-artist Kjell Engman of distinguished Swedish glassware and glass-art company Kosta Boda, the Eurovision-trophy is made of transparent solid glass, in the shape of a classic microphone. Sand blasted and painted with fine details, the trophy has become iconic for the Eurovision Song Contest. The prize comes with its own special box, and each year minute variations are embossed, such as the name of the host city and the flag of the host country.

Handed out since 2008, the trophy has seen some turbulent times. In 2009, the Norwegian winner Alexander Rybak managed to damage the prize when he, in his enthusiasm, set the delicate piece down too hard. And in 2013, after the victory of Danish Emmelie De Forest, the trophy was loaned to the National Museum in Denmark. When opening the box, it was discovered that the trophy had broken in two places. However, the prize was truly in good hands, as the conservation experts of the Danish National Museum managed to restore the trophy.

Next week, the trophy will start a new chapter in its history, as it will be delivered from the hands of Conchita Wurst into the hands of the 2015 winner of the 60th Eurovision Song Contest.

Stay tuned to ESCToday.com for all the latest news on the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest!