History of the Challenge Coin

The tradition of “Challenge Coin” originated during World War I. American volunteers had formed flying squadrons. Each member of one of these squadrons had a solid bronze medallion produced by the squadron’s wealthy lieutenant. One member of this squadron escaped from German captivity and was re-captured by the French. The French were about to execute the American not knowing he was a friend. But the squadron medallion worn by the American was recognized by one of the French. The American flyer’s life was spared.

During and after World War I, a tradition began to ensure that members carried their medallion or coin at all times. This goal was pursued by having a member challenge another member by tapping the medallion on the bar. If the challenged member could not show the medallion, the challenged member had to buy a drink of choice for the challenger. If the challenged member could show a medallion, the challenger had to buy the drink. For many years after World War I, surviving members kept this tradition alive.

Today, Challenge Coins aren’t just for the military. They are for everyone! Challenge coins are great for police & fire departments, schools, retirements, weddings, colleges, fraternities, clubs and many more. Medallions can be designed for your unique organization. You can collect or trade them.

Challenge Coin Order Form - download here

Challenge Coin Rules

Note: A "Coin Check" consists of a Challenge and a Response.

1. RULES:

A. The challenge is initiated by drawing your coin, holding it in the air by whatever means possible and state, scream, shout or otherwise verbally acknowledge that you are initiating a coin check. Another, but less vocal method is to firmly place it on the bar, table, or floor (this should produce an audible noise which can be easily heard by those being challenged, but try not to leave a permanent imprint). If you accidentally drop your coin and it makes an audible sound upon impact, then you have just "accidentally" initiated a coin check. (This is called paying the price for improper care of your coin.)

B. The response consists of all those persons being challenged drawing their coin in a like manner.

C. If you are challenged and are unable to properly respond, you must buy a round of drinks for the challenger and the group being challenged.

D. If everyone being challenged responds in the correct manner, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for all those people they challenged.

E. Failure to buy a round is a despicable crime and will require that you turn-in your Coin to the issuing agency.

2. WHEN - WHERE:

A. Coin checks are permitted, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE.

3. EXCEPTIONS:

A. There are no exceptions to the rules. They apply to those clothed or unclothed. At the time of the challenge you are permitted one step and one arm reach to locate your coin. If you still cannot reach it – PAY UP SUCKER!

4. A COIN IS A COIN

A. A coin on a keychain is a keychain.
B. A coin on a necklace is a necklace.

Challenge Coin Order Form - download here