The Masters champion first received a Green Jacket in 1949.
Sam Snead won the 1949 Masters Tournament and became the first champion to receive the famous jacket as part of the official presentation. Augusta National members had already worn green jackets as club attire, but the tournament tradition for champions was formalized in that year. Earlier Masters winners were later given jackets retroactively.
The Green Jacket is more than a winner’s souvenir. Each Masters champion becomes an honorary member of Augusta National, and the jacket is presented during the traditional ceremony in Butler Cabin. The champion may take it away from the club for one year, after which it remains at Augusta National for use during future visits.
The jacket is often associated with the Masters itself, but it is not the tournament’s only prize. Champions also receive the Masters Trophy and a gold medal. The Green Jacket’s color and presentation ceremony have made it one of golf’s most recognizable symbols.