Some say that challenge coins go as far back as Roman times. Soldiers were given them as a reward for exceptional service.
A more modern origin of the Navy challenge coin derives from World War I. The story goes that a wealthy squadron leader had bronze medallions created for his fellow pilots, bearing the squadron’s emblem as a gesture of camaraderie.
While they do not hold currency, Navy challenge coins are precious, especially to the recipient.
What Are Military Challenge Coins?
They represent each military branch, particular group, individual unit, or specific mission. Leadership can have their own military coins. Even the President of the United States and top generals have challenge coins.
You can develop a significant collection of challenge coins as a service member. It gives the service member a sense of pride and a feeling of belonging to have them.
Military Coins for the Navy
Challenge coins are prevalent among members of the Navy. They hold a deep meaning to the recipient and the presenter. Many service members keep their challenge coins and pass them to the next generation.
While the Navy gives many types of challenge coins to recognize their membership to a group, others are designed to identify an event, an individual, or a remarkable achievement.
What They Look Like
The challenge coins themselves are more extensive than American currency coins. Their size helps because they contain much detail. The extra space allows for more information and images.
Challenge coin options can feature:
- A Navy insignia
- Inspirational phrases
- Mascot
- Patriotic images
- Unit or base
Still, they are small enough to put in a pocket. Some challenge coins are only metallic, while others have a more colorful enamel coating. You can view Navy challenge coins here.
The Meaning of a Navy Challenge Coin
They can mean many things to different people but are highly coveted none the same. It can represent a bond with fellow service members or celebrate an achievement or special event. Navy challenge coins can commemorate a ship, tour of duty, unit, or membership of the United States Navy.
What makes them unique is that when Navy service members meet years later, they have their challenge coins to reminisce with.
How to Get a Challenge Coin
The most traditional method is to earn it. If you serve in the Navy, you should get one, but many are awarded based on dedication and hard work.
Another way to get Navy challenge coins is to collect them. Both civilians and veterans can express interest in collecting challenge coins. If this is your hobby, you can purchase challenge coins at an auction or online.
A Token of Appreciation
A Navy challenge coin does not hold currency. The value comes from how the recipient feels when they receive it. It represents much more than money and, with its miniature design, is packed with memories.
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