What is a challenge coin?

What is a challenge coin?

Introduction

The military has a long-standing tradition of using custom challenge coins to commemorate special occasions and reward exceptional actions. Military challenge coin initially keeps by members of the armed forces, law enforcement officers, and so on. They are award to notable people like military personnel, veterans, or the ones who contributed to the large majority.

In this article, we uncover these peculiar coins, their history, differences (if any), and the different types available out there.

But first things first!

5 Interesting Facts About challenge coins / Commemorative Coins

• The initial military challenge coins were awarded to warriors for valor in the Roman Army.
• On some occasions, people consider the custom made coins as a sign of brotherhood and respect
• Every coin is engraved with a special logo or motto that commemorates a special occasion or moment.
• Challenge coins are valuable collector items that vary in value. Awarding a challenge coin through a secret handshake is a famous recruiting tool

With that in mind, Let’s dive right in.

What are Challenge Coins?

A challenge coin is a small medallion that bears the motto, logo, or insignia of an organization/ society that they represent. These coins are often awarded to members of the organization/society to enhance morale, acknowledge their service, or promote its brand.

Custom coins are typically has a diameter of 1.5 inches, 1.75inches, and 2inches. The coin designs vary in different shapes and sizes like pentagon, shields, arrowheads, or dog tags.

The main raw materials of most popular coins are a zinc alloy and brass in gold or silver finishing.

Regarding the edges, there are several options available:

• Flat wave cut edge
• Flat cut edge
• Oblique line edge
• Rope cut edge

Most time, challenge coin display in challenge coin holder/capsules.

Custom made coins are popular in numerous organizations, including firefighters, marine corps, police, FBI, air force, and corporations, to recognize someone’s outstanding efforts or contributions to the organization or society.

With that in mind, You are probably wondering Is there a difference between personalized Challenge coins and commemorative coins?

Challenge coins are also referred by many as commemorative coins in some areas, even though there exists a minor difference between them. The two terms used interchangeably in somewhat similar circumstances for an award.

Nowadays, commemorative coins feature various cultural attributes, and they can be presented both on military and other occasions.

History of Challenge Coins

The origin of the tradition of challenge coins is largely uncertain with different sources giving opinions on their history.

Coins and military service go a long way back than our current modern age. Some of the earliest known occasions where soldiers received commemorative coins date back to ancient Rome. Roman empire soldiers received coins after a war to commemorate their men of valor and recognize their individual achievements.

During the Renaissance period, challenge coins were known as portrait medals. It uses to commemorate particular events and occasions that involved nobles, royals, and other high-ranking individuals.

One popular story illustrates that challenge coins started from the US Army during the First World War (1914-1919). According to this story, the coins were as awards to American volunteers who fought in the war.

Most of the world’s commemorative coins date back to the 1960s although earlier versions date back to earlier dates. Later, various world governments began circulating commemorative coins with regular currency. For example, the Soviet Union issued a challenge coin to commemorate their victory in the Second World War.

In a word, the history of challenge coins remains uncertain and the period varies depending on the jurisdiction or country.

Custom Coins Categories :

They incorporate the tradition, history, and customs of the military services. More than simple mementos, they are a strong symbol of service to the country and the ultimate sacrifice thus. In the US, for instance, officers award challenge coins to soldiers as an appreciation for a successful deployment, mission or training.

Usually, the military challenge coin is in round shapes, display with challenge coin holders. Anyway, challenge coin designs are custom, they can be with wave cut or crosscut. These coins carry the unit insignia, important dates, special words, and colors that match the regimental colors.

Most police departments across the world inherited the tradition from the military, and have become a part of their activities. Senior police officers issue challenge coins to colleagues who show outstanding service to the force as a sign of appreciation. Officers awarded with challenge coins receive respect from their colleagues and often help to tackle major cases in the department.

Nowadays, custom made coins are no longer uncommon items that limit to military service. Some civic organizations such as the boy scouts and Lions club also have their own challenge coin design. They give coins to partners and stakeholders in recognition of their relationship and goodwill. Challenge coins have become highly collectible, long-lasting items to show allegiance and respect on any occasion.

You maybe want to know How challenge coins made？