Challenge Coin Rules
Just in case someone decides to coin check me…I’m always ready! – Sarge
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The history of Challenge Coin Rules dates back to World War I. Challenge Coins were originally used as a way for soldiers to prove their membership to a specific unit and to build camaraderie. The tradition of carrying a Challenge Coin and producing it upon request has continued to this day, especially in military and first responder organizations.
Challenge Coin Rules have evolved over time, but the core tradition of producing a Challenge Coin to prove membership or affiliation remains the same. The specific Challenge Coin Rules and customs surrounding Challenge Coins can vary between different groups, but the general idea of carrying a coin and being prepared to produce it upon request remains a consistent part of the tradition.
Note: A “Coin Check” consists of a Challenge and a Response.
1. CHALLENGE COIN RULES:
A. The challenge is initiated by drawing your coin, holding it in the air by whatever means possible and state, scream, shout or otherwise verbally acknowledge that you are initiating a coin check. Another, but less vocal method is to firmly place it on the bar, table, or floor (this should produce an audible noise which can be easily heard by those being challenged, but try not to leave a permanent imprint). If you accidentally drop your coin and it makes an audible sound upon impact, then you have just “accidentally” initiated a coin check. (This is called paying the price for improper care of your coin.)
B. The response consists of all those persons being challenged drawing their Challenge Coin in a like manner.
C. If you are challenged and are unable to properly respond, you must buy a round of drinks for the challenger and the group being challenged.
D. If everyone being challenged responds in the correct manner, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for all those people they challenged.
E. Failure to buy a round is a despicable crime and will require that you turn-in your Challenge Coin to the issuing agency.
2. WHEN – WHERE:
A. Coin checks are permitted, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE.
3. EXCEPTIONS:
A. There are no exceptions to the Challenge Coin Rules. They apply to those clothed or unclothed. At the time of the challenge you are permitted one step and an arms reach to locate your coin. If you still cannot reach it — Sorry about that!
Challenge Coin Rules:
In conclusion, Challenge Coins are symbols of membership in a group or organization and are usually displayed on the person and readily accessible for inspection. The rules for Challenge Coins often include protocols for handling challenges, treating the coins with respect, using only authentic coins, and understanding the specific rules associated with each coin. The specific rules and traditions associated with Challenge Coins can vary widely, depending on the organization and individuals involved.
Read about Challenge Coin History >>
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Handing someone a Challenge Coin is a special and meaningful
All About Challenge Coins
Everything you’ll ever want to know about Challenge Coins is contained in the podcast below. This is by far the BEST EVER, well researched, informative, and presented story about Challenge Coins. Listen to the podcast below featuring COINFORCE Founder and CEO, Jordan “Sarge” Haines (starts 8:54).
99% Invisible – Episode 156 – Coin Check
What Are Challenge Coins?
Challenge Coins are metal coins that come in various sizes, shapes, and styles that are typically awarded to an individual for excellence, special achievement, or any other reason deemed worthy by the presenter.
Challenge Coins are also used in various ways to boost morale, create camaraderie, motivate, inspire, special occasions, and remembrance, even as a business card that will never get tossed away.
Military Challenge Coins are largely used by US, Canadian, British, German, and Australian military forces to symbolize unit identity, recognize excellence, commemorate deployments, remember the fallen, foster esprit de corps and brotherhood. Other military forces around the World have started to adapt this culture. Read more about Challenge Coins at Wikipedia.
Challenge Coin History
During World War I, American volunteers from all parts of the country filled the newly formed flying squadrons. Some were wealthy scions attending colleges such as Yale and Harvard who quit in mid-term to join the war. In one squadron, a wealthy lieutenant ordered medallions struck in solid bronze and presented them to his unit. One young pilot placed the medallion in a small leather pouch that he wore about his neck…more about Challenge Coin history >
Challenge Coin “Coin Check” Rules
A Challenge Coin “Coin Check” is a favorite use of a Challenge Coin. Simply put, a “Coin Check” consists of a challenge and a response; if someone initiates a “Coin Check” while at a bar, anyone who is present who doesn’t have their Challenge Coin on them is obligated to buy a round of drinks, however, if everyone who is present produces their Challenge Coin, the person who initiated the “Coin Check: is obligated to buy the round of drinks. This is a lot of fun and a great way to foster esprit de corps…Read more about “Coin Check” Rules >
Challenge Coin News & Inspiring Stories
If you want to see just how popular Challenge Coins have become and to get great ideas how others are using them; for the latest news, inspiring stories, and photos all about Challenge Coins – news >