The History of the Challenge Coin

Challenge Coins are widely used in the military, but if you don’t have a defense background, you may not know what the big deal is. So, what is a challenge coin and what does it mean?

Challenge coins are small, metal tokens, but they don’t look like the change in your pocket. Many feature colorful and intricate designs. They are powerful symbols, meant to identify members of a group, commemorate special occasions, or recognize excellence. The coins have typically been presented by unit commanders in recognition of a special achievement, or given during a visit to an organization.

There are many yarns on the origin of the challenge coin. Many people trace the usage to Ancient Rome. During the Roman Empire, if a solder excelled in battle, he would be distributed his days’ wages, but also awarded a bonus coin. According to some, these coins were minted with the marks of the legion from which they came. Soldiers would often choose to keep the special coin as a memento, rather than spend it.

A more recent account dates to World War I. The story goes: a wealthy Lieutenant had bronze medallions engraved for everyone in his unit. Shortly after, one pilot from the squadron was shot down and forced to land behind enemy lines. He survived, but was captured by a German patrol. To discourage him from escaping, they took all his personal belongings and ID, only leaving a small leather pouch around his neck.

One evening during a bombing raid, the young man did escape, made it to the front lines, and crossed no-man’s-land into French territory. Stripped of his identification, the French suspected him of being a German saboteur. However, the pilot was able to produce his medallion, which he’d kept in the  pouch around his neck. He showed the French soldiers the American squadron’s insignia, thus saving his own life. From there, it became tradition for all service members to carry their unit coin at all times. Challenges ensued as a way to ensure adherence to the new tradition. Pilots were often “challenged” by their officers to see if they did indeed have their coin on them. If they did not, they were required to buy their officer a drink. If they did, the officer would buy them a drink.

The tradition spread throughout the military and beyond. Challenge coins became used for

• Proof of membership to foster a sense of pride and belonging
• Certification and award of milestones and achievement
• Commemoration of special occasions and events
• Marketing and brand awareness

Today, government officials, police and fire departments, and many civic organizations have coins made. Even motorcycle riders, football players, and Star Wars cosplayers enjoy the comraderie of sharing a challenge coin.

The Hampton Roads Alliance has created our own challenge coin to demonstrate the unity of our region and acknowledge the contributions of our partners. We believe that working collaboratively to empower and improve Hampton Roads is a high calling worthy of recognition. If you receive one of our coins, you are an integral part of our community and part of the greater 757 family. Together, we have a greater impact on our region. Together, we can become a more resilient, inclusive, and equitable region of choice for businesses, organizations, and individuals to call home.