Challenge Coins

By: Tom Warner

Military unit coins are given to those who excel in their particular branch of the military. These coins are minted for military personnel to be given out by the highest ranking official when a person is recognized for an outstanding act in military training. Often given to boost morale among enlisted service members they are also called "challenge coins".

The story behind them being called challenge coins is that every military person who has received one should carry it on them at all times. If another person pulls their military unit coin out and taps it on the table then it can be challenged by another person who has one as well. If a person of lower rank loses the challenge then they must buy the higher ranking officer a drink.

Military unit coins gained popularity after the Gulf War in 1991, there have been special coins minted to recognize a certain date in military history, such as the cold war and Desert Storm and Desert Shield. These coins were first given notoriety in WW1 when soldiers would compare them and group together according to their given coins and branches. Each coin is designed to show the receiver that their commitment is not overlooked.

Because coins, no matter what their significance, are always sought after by collectors. Many feel that this cheapens the military unit coin because anybody can obtain one who wants to do so. Those who usually collect such coins have no desire to use them as a challenge coin so most collections are sealed and hidden away.

Each branch of service has their own military unit coins. Many who receive these coins cherish them and pass them on to the next generation for safekeeping. Some coins are given upon joining an organization and after completing the training.

Article Source: https://www.collectibles-articles.com

Find out more about coin collecting at CoinCollecting-Values.com and see military unit coins.

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