The Rich Personal History of the Challenge Coin

Wednesday June 16th, 2010
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Topic: Custom Challenge Coins

Since World War I, challenge coins have been used to honor and motivate individuals in the military as well as academic, corporate, and athletic settings.  Due to their size and shape, they are easy to carry around in a pouch or acrylic case and can be created as a keychain or pendant also.

Challenge Coin Origins

Challenge coins were first handed out by a wealthy Lieutenant during World War I as a way to encourage and reward the men in his unit for their bravery.  After being captured by the enemies, one pilot produced his military challenge coin as a way of proving his identity and his life was spared.  He relayed this story to his unit and from that point on each member vowed to carry their challenge coins with them at all times.

Uses for Challenge Coins

A popular item with all branches of the military—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and the Coast Guard, today’s challenge coins can also be created for the following groups:

  • Sports Teams
  • Charities
  • Clubs
  • Businesses
  • Fraternal Organizations
  • Churches
  • Schools and Universities

Challenge Coin Rules

There are some rules to follow when announcing a challenge in a bar or a pub.  First, you verbally declare your intention.  Next, you must visually produce an acceptable coin of your own.  Last but not least, you must check to see if everyone else lives up to their end of the challenge.  Challenge coins cannot be altered in any way to be considered valid.  Anyone who doesn’t meet this criterion must buy you a drink.  If everyone passes the challenge, you must return the favor and buy them a round of drinks.

Ways to Personalize Challenge Coins

There are a number of ways to personalize challenge coins.  A few of the most common include:

  • Glitter
  • 3D Molding
  • Custom Edging
  • Cut Outs
  • Dual Plating

You can include information about your business, organization, team or group on either a single or double sided challenge coin.  You can also preserve the appearance of these keepsake items and display them in your home or place of employment by purchasing PVC Envelopes, Coin Capsules, Velvet Bags, Acrylic Coin Cases, Velvet Coin Cases or Plastic Stands.

Challenge coins are a great option for your next awards ceremony or fundraising event.  They are appealing and durable which makes them cherished pieces of memorabilia for everyone who receives them.  Contact Signature Coins for a no obligation, free quote.