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 A challenge coin is a small coin or medallion, bearing an organization’s insignia or emblem and carried by the organization’s members.

Members of the U.S. military have a long-standing tradition of carrying a special coin symbolizing unit identity and esprit de corps (a feeling of pride, fellowship and common loyalty shared by members of a group). With bonds forged in battle thousands of miles from home, these custom coins minted for military units – each bearing their own revered symbols and mottos – capture in metal the essence of their affiliation and their fierce pride. Known to generations of American military personnel as challenge coins, they are a vital part of military life today and are revered by troops in every branch of service.  History tells many remarkable stories of challenge coins being exchanged between allies overseas building camaraderie and even saving lives at times.

Today, the challenge coin tradition has spread to other military units, in all branches of service, lawmen, firefighters, government officials and even to non-military organizations.  Challenge coins are given to members upon joining an organization, as an award to improve morale, and/or sold to commemorate special occasions or as fundraisers.  These coins identify the bearer as a member of a particular unit with a well-defined history and mission and represents a tangible source of pride. Wherever the members gather, they challenge each other by “coining.” The group’s unique coin is slammed on a bar to challenge all in the group to display their own coins; he who is last or without, must pay a penalty, which is usually buying the round of drinks.  Most important, a challenge coin is carried at all times as a symbolism of membership, honor, loyalty and memory.

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