![]() However, the ace presented his medallion as proof of his identity.īecause one of the French soldiers recognized the insignia, France delayed the ace's execution. ![]() After he escaped to France, he was sentenced to die, as the French labeled him a spy. Germans are said to have removed everything from the ace's person except for a pouch he was wearing - one that held his medallion. Not long after that, a young flying ace was shot down and captured. At that time, a rich officer gave his men bronze medallions featuring the insignia of their flying squadron. Possibly the First Challenge CoinĪnother well-known story about the emergence of the challenge coin dates back to the First World War. Meanwhile, other challenge coins are distributed to the civilian population for publicity purposes or are sold as fundraising tools. Still, some soldiers use challenge coins today as identification badges proving that they served in certain units. However, some administrators treat them much like autographs and business cards that they can store in their own collections. These types of coins are still handed out today to reward people for jobs well done, particularly in the military. As a result, some soldiers apparently kept their coins as mementos, instead of spending them on wine and women. According to some accounts, these bonus coins were specially minted, featuring the marks of the legions from which they came. In Rome, if soldiers excelled in battle one day, they would receive their typical day's wages along with a separate bonus coin each. However, we do know that military service and coins go back much farther than the modern age - possibly as far back as Ancient Rome. It's not completely clear exactly where and why the challenge coin tradition began. Some feature simple designs, whereas others have more elaborate designs and highlights. Some may even take the shapes of dog tags, arrowheads, pentagons, and shields.Ĭhallenge coins are usually made of nickel, copper or pewter and feature various finishes. However, their sizes and styles vary greatly. The diameters of challenge coins are usually between 1.5 and 2 inches, and these coins are typically around 1/10 inch thick. And today, they aren't restricted to the military (even though they largely remain a mystery among those who are not in the armed forces).Ĭhallenge coins are essentially small tokens or medallions that signify that people are members of certain organizations. However, carrying challenge coins is one of the most well-respected ones. Many traditions have helped to build camaraderie among military personnel over the years. Let's get started! The Purpose and Appearance of a Challenge Coin Here's a glimpse at the history of the challenge coin and at the rules you'll need to follow when giving and receiving them. ![]() The reality, though, is that the challenge coin has a long and intriguing history.Īlthough the challenge coin is something that few people know about, these coins are very symbolic and meaningful among those who have received them. Never heard of a challenge coin? Don't worry - you're not the only one. Learn more about the history of challenge coins and the rules of giving/receiving them in our article. The challenge coin is something few people know about, but those who do, these coins are very symbolic and meaningful.
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