The History of the Challenge Coin

Tatbere The History of the "Challenge Coin" THE COIN THAT SAVED HIS LIFE A popular story about how challenge coins came to be, dates back to World War I, when a wealthy officer had bronze medallions struck with the fiying squadron's insignia to give to his men. Shortly after, one of the young flying aces was shot down over Germany and captured. The pilot escaped and made his way to France. But the French believed he was a spy, and sentenced him to execution. In an effort to prove his identity, the pilot presented the medallion. A French soldier happened to recognize the insignia and the execution was delayed. With his identity confirmed, he was sent home safely to his american base. The challenge colin is a revered part of military history, to show membership in a branch of the armed forces, for morale, and for recognition of service. Since World War I, challenge coins have been treasured symbols of an unbreakable bond, reminding military personnel of their common goals, dedication and allegiance. AIERORNE PROTECTON 101ST AIRBORNE DIVISION ST. CHRISTOPHER One of the most decorated divisions of the US. Army, the 101st Airbome's "Screaming Eagles" have ruled the world's skies for over six invincible decades. The St. Christopher coin offers a promise of protection for travelers Soldiers and warriors have boen carrying talisman into battle for centuries and St Christopher is a popular one. THE BAR ROOM CHALLENGE Because it was now believed that carrying your unit's coin could literally save your life, soldiers began challenging each other to ensure each member of the unit was indeed carrying it at all times. Here's how it works: The challenger slams his coin on the bar. (Accidentally dropping a challenge coin is considered to be a deliberate challenge to all present.) NAVY VIETN NAVY PROUDLY SERVED VIETNAM VETERAN Everyone being challenged must immediately produce the coin for their organization and anyone failing to do so must buy a round of drinks for the challenger and everyone else who has their challenge coin. However, if the person who is challenged can come up with their coin, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for the group. Cheers! Navy Proudly Served Challenge coin depicts a petty officer scanning the horizon with U.S. naval vessels and helicopters in the background. Iconic medal to show service in Vietnam. 3 medals surrounded. by bamboo trim and on the back, a striking depiction of a dragon's head. USMC USMC RIFLE EXPERT SHELLBACK THE SHELLBACK COIN Marksmanship Medal which is presented to personnel upon successful completion of a weapons qualification course (known as Marksmanship Qualification Badges). A must have for all Salts that have gone south of the equator. Features King Neptune surrounded by hammerhead sharks, and 'ANCIENT ORDER OF THE SHELLBACK lettering THE SECRET HANDSHAKE In June 2011, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates toured military bases in Alghanistan before his impending retirement. Along the way, he shook hands with dozens of men and women in the Armed Forces in what, to the naked cyo, appeared to be a simple exchange of respect. It was, in fact, a secret handshake with a surprise inside for the recipient-a special Secretary of Defense challenge coin. COLDWAR HEART PURPLE HEART COLD WAR VETERAN Not all challenge coins are passed by secret handshake, but it has become a tradition that many uphold to this day. The Purple Heart is awarded to those wounded or killed while courageously serving in the United States Armed Forces. SAC lightning bolts, the Berlin Brigade Sword and the Check Point Charlie sign, this coin is for those who trained, prepared and fought during 1945-1991. PRESIDENTIAL CHALLENGE COINS Starting with Bill Clinton, every president has had his own challenge coin and, since Dick Cheney, the vice president has had one, too. SURFACE HUEY UH-1 HUEY COIN SURFACE WARFARE There are usually a few different Presidential coins-one for the inauguration, one that commemorates his administration, and one available to the general public, But there's one special, official presidential coin that can only be received by shaking the hand of the most powerful man in the workd. As you can probably guess, this is the rarest and most sought-after of all challenge coins. Introduced in Vietnam, the UH-1 Iroquois, nicknamed the Huey, is one of the most successful rotary-wing aircraft in aviation history. This coin salutes the courage and commitment of those who serve as enlisted personnel in the U.S. Navy's Surface Warfare Division Click Here To Enlarge