Challenge Coins- Meaning, origin and tradition
Posted by dunitzsantrino on October 23rd, 2014
Challenge coins are a small medal or a coin presented to the soldier in all the armed forces for the outstanding performances on duty or any special mission. These coins mean a lot and everything to soldiers, with a great respect these challenge coins will be honoured to the individuals and some times to family members for their sacrifices. Challenge coins history dates back to First World War with the story of brave air force pilot, the medal that saved his life and to emerge from the enemy borders. All the armed forces will have their own challenge coin engraved with respective unit emblem and few with quotes traced. In some special occasions they have customize the challenge coins as per the purpose and remembrance of the day, like engraving the date of celebration or mission name etc.
Challenge coins are made up of core metals such as bronze, silver, aluminium, copper, platinum and some time gold plated also with many other alloys. Comes in different shape, size, dimension engraved with respective unit symbol. On national festivals or Flag Day, army day or any other special occasion with great respect and hand shook as a token of appreciation and thanks these Challenge coins will be awarded. It’s a rule that every Challenge coin holder should have it with him every time. All team members will have the rights to challenge the challenge coin holder to present it at anytime. If the holder fails to present he should give a drink party to all the team members.
Few wore on their shoulders, few place it in leather pouch or wallet and some hang about their neck. Apart from all the below challenge coins, you can personalize these coins as per your requirement. It’s a trend to use these coins as a gift, many agencies, organization, corporate offices, educational institution, business, reputed brands, wedding and many other celebrations as Custom Challenge coins. Below are the different types of challenge coins exists as per the respective branches.
•Military Challenge coins
•Army Challenge coins
•Navy Challenge coins
•Marine Challenge coins
•Coast guard Challenge coins
•Law Enforcement Challenge coins
•Police Challenge coins
•Fire Fighter Challenge coins
•Custom Challenge coins
Army Challenge Coins
•Significant achievements of army personnel will be awarded by Army Challenge coins.
•Acts as a morale booster, enhances the team spirit and encourages for the future paths
•Army Challenge coins acts as identity and a prestigious distinct.
•Also place a healthy competition between staff members in a team, everyone love and wish to be a part of appreciation and recognition
The special meaning the Army Challenge coin will carry for all time is one of camaraderie for Soldiers as it means a lot to him.