The Challenge Coin

There are many different challenge coins out there, most being military service unit coins. They are popular among collectors and enthusiasts due to their history and meaning. The challenge coin was said to have originated from world war one, when a rich air force lieutenant presented each of his unit with coins to commemorate the time they had served together.

Military coins soon became popular and soon became better known as the challenge coin. Challenge coins have been used over the years by:

• The Air Force
• The Army
• The Navy
• The Coast Guard
• The Army National Guard
• Federal Divisions
• Fire Fighters
• Non military personnel

The challenge coin has often been associated with unity, pride and a length of service. However they are very popular in drinking games among squadrons – whoever forgets to bring their coin has to buy a round of drinks when challenged. They are almost always carried on a person, so forgetting to keep your challenge coin on your person usually resolves in a forfeit.

Challenge coins are usually round in shape and have stamped images and writing. Some challenge coins resemble military badges, symbols and have memorable messages on them.

Collectors are interested in particularly high quality of military coin, usually the rarer the better. Some are just must haves whilst others have no interest to collectors if shabby and imitating. Famous collectors include Bill Clinton and George W Bush amongst others.