JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas–
A challenge coin bears an organization's insignia and is presented by commanders to a member of the unit to recognize special achievement.
The Air Force challenge coin tradition is long-standing and is known throughout all specialties, and to all ranks.
"While some dispute when the services started issuing unit pins and medallions, it is known that the Army Air Service minted and provided emblem medallions. The medallions that still exist are quite valuable to collectors." said Gary Boyd, Air Education and Training Command historian.
According to Boyd, the earliest examples of what could be considered a challenge coin were medals presented by the Aero Club of America to a few pioneering Airmen, once they completed flying training. The club wanted to provide them to every flyer, but the vast number of new pilots made it impossible once training started to truly take off.
There are several stories regarding the origins of the challenge coin. The most common challenge coin story, according to an article by Cpl. Wil Acosta, depicts an American who volunteered to fly during World War I. The wealthy lieutenant ordered solid bronze medallions imprinted with the squadron emblem for every member of his squadron. Examples of these squadron medallions still exist.
Sometime after the medallions were distributed, the lieutenant's aircraft was severely damaged during a mission, forcing him to land in enemy territory. He was captured by a German patrol that took most of his personal identification except for his medallion.
He was transported near the front lines where he was able to escape and reach a French outpost.
The French military members were skeptical of this young American pilot who had no identification. The lieutenant presented his medallion to the French military members, who recognized the insignia.
The French gave the lieutenant a bottle of wine once he was able to confirm his identity.
Once the lieutenant was able to make it back to his squadron, it instantly became a tradition to ensure all members carried their medallions at all times.
To ensure compliance to this new tradition, anyone could request to see the coin. If the member could show their coin, the challenger was required to purchase a drink for the challenged member. If the member was unable to show his coin, they would have to buy a drink for the challenger.
Another account regarding the international origin of the challenge coin, told by Col. Rob Lyman, director of communications of Air Mobility Command, describes how an officer would work with the senior enlisted member of the unit to give a new sixpence, a former British currency coin worth six pennies, to a deserving soldier. This reward was given with a strong handshake, much like how commander's coins are presented today.
Boyd claims the tradition of challenge coins did not become popular until after the Korean War.
Coins are as unique as the units that present them and vary in meaning to each individual who receives them. The military challenge coin has varying accounts of its origins, yet remains a staple in military traditions.
FAQs
The most common challenge coin story, according to an article by Cpl. Wil Acosta, depicts an American who volunteered to fly during World War I. The wealthy lieutenant ordered solid bronze medallions imprinted with the squadron emblem for every member of his squadron. Examples of these squadron medallions still exist.
What is the history behind the military challenge coins? ›
The more modern origin of the challenge coin as we know it can possibly be traced back to World War I, with a story, which may be apocryphal but is widely told, involving a young American pilot who volunteered for a newly-formed flying squadron.
What does it mean when a military person gives you a coin? ›
Challenge coins have a special way of instilling pride in its recipients. They serve as a more informal token of appreciation, standing in place of medals and ribbons. The practice has a long history among those in the military and first responders as a way to honor service.
What is an FBI challenge coin? ›
A challenge coin is a coin or medallion, bearing an insignia or emblem and carried by the members of the organization. Traditionally, they are given to prove membership when challenged and to enhance morale.
What is the military coin tradition? ›
If you've been in the military or worked for the Defense Department, you know what a challenge coin is. They've been an American military tradition for a century, meant to instill unit pride, improve esprit de corps and reward hard work and excellence.
Can a civilian receive a military challenge coin? ›
Can a Civilian Get a Challenge Coin? Absolutely. Civilians are often recipients of challenge coins in recognition of contributions to a community, achievements within a corporation, or service in volunteer organizations.
What are the rules of a military challenge coin? ›
Challenge Coin Rules
The response consists of all those present responding in a like manner within 15 seconds. At the time of the challenge you are allowed one step and an arm's reach to locate your coin. All coin holders present will participate during a challenge. A response can be with any other challenge coin.
What do you do if someone gives you a challenge coin? ›
Instead, if you have been challenged you can properly respond by holding your coin or placing it on the table. If someone wants a closer look at it they can have it but they are honor bound to bring it back to where they found it.
Is it an honor to receive a challenge coin? ›
In the realm of military tradition and beyond, the act of being given a challenge coin is a gesture steeped in honor and significance. These coins, more than mere tokens, represent recognition, camaraderie, and a storied history of achievement.
What does it mean when a navy seal gives you a coin? ›
Military challenge coins are an iconic symbol in the military. Historically, these coins are given as a token of appreciation, recognition, and pride for service members who have gone above and beyond their duty.
CIA challenge coins offer a unique way to recognize and honor the exceptional service and achievements of individuals within the Central Intelligence Agency.
What does it mean when a police officer gives you a challenge coin? ›
In conclusion, police challenge coins are a popular way for police officers to show support for each other and their united goal of a peaceful and non-violent society.
What is a swat challenge coin? ›
SWAT challenge coins can be used to commemorate to occasion and bestowed a marker of pride and accomplishment on those men and women who have joined the rank to the best of the best in Law Enforcement. Get started crafting your set of SWAT challenge coins today!
What does it mean if a veteran gives you a challenge coin? ›
Challenge Coins are unique keepsakes that represent important moments or experiences. They can be used as a way to recognize people, places, organizations—and even memories of things like your time in the military during deployment.
What does it mean if a commander gives you a coin? ›
Historically, challenge coins were presented by unit commanders in recognition of special achievement by a member of the unit. They could also be exchanged in recognition of visits to an organization. Modern day challenge coins may feature popular culture attributes or organizational values.
What does it mean when a Marine gives you a coin? ›
These coins are often presented by high-ranking officers for a job well done, which is a great honor. They are also sometimes traded between men and women in a unit.
What is the meaning of a military challenge coin? ›
Challenge coins have been around for centuries and were used as a means of showing respect, honor, or wealth. According to some military historians, Roman soldiers would carry coins on their person for good luck and to show proof that they were part of a particular legion.
Are Military Challenge coins worth anything? ›
Are challenge coins worth anything? These coins are usually made of inexpensive materials such as brass, nickel, zinc, or other metals. They are not intended for mass distribution. Their monetary value is modest and can range from a few bucks to slightly more if they are rare or custom-made.
What is the meaning of the presidential challenge coin? ›
What are Presidential Challenge Coins? A presidential challenge coin is a physical token given out by the President of the United States. It is a small metal coin used to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the country or the President's administration.
Who gives out military challenge coins? ›
Military and Presidential Challenge Coins
It's a customary tradition for military commanders and government officials to present challenge coins to guests that visit as a symbol of welcoming and honorary membership.
