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History of Military Challenge Coins

The military challenge coin is generally a bronze medallion that identifies a military unit or squad in the U.S. military. The owner of the coin carries it on his or her person and if challenged by another member of the military it must be produced. The coin has since evolved into something of a bar game in which drinks are at stake if a coin can't be produced upon a challenge.

Origins
- Military lore has it that a wealthy American World War I flying ace had squadron medallions struck for his comrades to be carried at all times.
The Challenge
- The flyer was captured by Germans, and after his escape in civilian clothes he produced the coin as identification to French soldiers who accepted it and gave him safe passage.
Elite Membership
- Challenge coins were particularly popular during World War II and the Korean War and were often informally awarded to military personnel upon graduation from training exercises.
The Look
- Coins can range from the simple to ornate and usually feature the military unit's logo or insignia, identifying number and motto.
Non-Military
- The military challenge coin has spawned a cottage industry of similar coins adopted by police and fire departments and civilian clubs and fraternities.
Presidents' Collections
- Former President Bill Clinton has a collection of challenge coins given to him from military personnel and former President George W. Bush received one from a Marine combat unit on a 2007 visit to Iraq.

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