History

• According to Global Security, a wealthy lieutenant in World War I ordered bronze coins for the men in his squadron. One of the men, who kept the coin in a leather pouch around his neck, was captured by the Germans. The Germans took everything from him except the leather pouch. When he later escaped, he avoided execution by the French when they recognized the unit insignia on the coin. It then became tradition for military members to carry challenge coins.
  
  

Description

• Traditional Army challenge coins are round and vary in size from 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches in diameter. More recently, Army challenge coins have been cast in shapes representing the countries of Iraq and Afghanistan, unit insignia and dog tags. Designs are featured on both sides of the coin. Coins are made to represent high-ranking officers, units, commands and conflicts.
  
  

Modern Use

• Army challenge coins are presented to military members and civilians to show appreciation for support, to boost morale and to award soldiers for their service. Army soldiers can purchase their own coins from a variety of coin manufacturers. Many units also sell the Army challenge coin as a fundraiser for unit events and activities.
  
  

Challenge

• When an Army soldier presents his coin in the open, it is considered a challenge to other military members who are present. If another soldier cannot present his coin, that soldier must buy a round of drinks for the challenger and the others who were challenged. If everyone who was challenged presents a coin, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for everyone he challenged.
  
  

Display

• Most soldiers carry at least one coin with them at all times and other coins that have been received or collected are displayed. Wooden racks are the most common display used for Army challenge coins. Some display racks only accommodate challenge coins, while others provide room to display pins and other memorabilia as well. Several United States presidents, including Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, have displayed in the Oval Office challenge coins received from military members.