Challenge coins come with long-standing customs about how they're earned, given, carried and checked. If you've just received your first coin, or you're planning coins for your own group, this guide covers the traditions worth knowing.
Where challenge coins come from
The most famous origin story dates to World War I: an American pilot carrying a bronze medallion from his squadron was captured, escaped, and proved his identity to French troops with the medallion, which led his unit to carry them ever since. Historians treat the details as legend, but the tradition it describes is real. Unit coins spread through the U.S. military over the 20th century and are now used by police and fire departments, government agencies, businesses, clubs and schools. For a deeper look at military history, read from battlefield to tradition.
How challenge coins are given
A challenge coin is usually earned, not bought. Leaders present coins to recognize excellence, mark a promotion or deployment, welcome someone to a unit, or thank a visitor. The traditional way to present a coin is the coin handshake: the giver holds the coin in their right palm and passes it to the recipient during a handshake, so the coin changes hands discreetly. It's meant to feel personal rather than ceremonial.
Today, many organizations also present coins openly at ceremonies, often in a presentation case, which suits awards, retirements and graduations.
The coin check
The best-known tradition is the coin check (or coin challenge). Anyone in the group can start one by placing or slapping their coin on the table, or holding it up. Everyone else must produce their coin. Traditionally, anyone who can't show their coin buys a round, and if everyone produces their coin, the challenger buys instead. Rules vary from group to group, so learn your unit's version. Our coin check rules guide covers the slap, the drop and the buyback in detail.
Challenge coin etiquette
- Carry your coin. If your group does coin checks, keep your coin with you. A coin on a keychain or in a pocket is ready when you need it.
- Don't ask for coins. Coins are given, not requested. Asking someone, especially a senior leader, for their coin is considered poor form.
- Respect the coin. Treat a coin as the honor it represents. Many traditions say a coin shouldn't be altered or defaced.
- Know whose coin counts. In many groups, only coins from your own unit or organization count in a coin check. Ask before assuming.
- Display them with pride. Coin racks, shadow boxes and display cases are a common way to show a collection. Read our guide to collecting challenge coins.
Challenge coins beyond the military
The same traditions have been adopted far beyond the armed forces:
- Police, fire and EMS departments use coins for recognition, academy graduations and memorials.
- Businesses give coins for milestones, team awards and customer thank-yous.
- Government agencies exchange coins during official visits.
- Clubs, schools and charities use coins as membership tokens, awards and fundraisers.
Common coin occasions
- Recognition: a job well done, a save, a top performer or an act of service.
- Milestones: promotions, graduations, years of service and retirements.
- Welcomes and farewells: joining a unit or team, or leaving after a tour or a career.
- Events: deployments, reunions, conferences, anniversaries and charity events.
- Remembrance: memorial coins honoring fallen members.
Challenge coin traditions FAQ
Can you buy your own challenge coin?
Traditionally, coins are earned or given. That said, many groups sell coins to members or supporters as fundraisers, and that's perfectly normal. The tradition is about not asking someone else for their personal coin.
What do you do when someone gives you a coin?
Thank them, keep it safe and carry it if your group does coin checks. Many people keep a note of who gave them each coin and why, which makes a collection more meaningful over time.
Why are challenge coins so valued?
Each coin is tied to a person, a unit or an achievement. The metal itself isn't worth much, but the story behind it is what people remember and keep.
Starting a coin tradition in your organization
A coin program can build pride and identity in any group. Decide what the coin will recognize, who can present it and how. Design a coin that reflects your group's history and values, and keep extras on hand so leaders can recognize people on the spot. Our designers can help with the artwork for free, and you'll approve a full-color proof before anything is made. Request a free quote to get started, or read how to choose a coin size and how much coins cost.
