The exact history of giving the earliest challenge coin is unclear, however, one of the earliest coins recorded was during the Second World War. This is the traditional beginning, and from then onwards, Challenge coins have become an important part of military service, as well as civilian life.

All military branches proudly own their own coin, such the air force coins, marine unit coins, etc.

Take a look at how to give challenge coins and what you need to know and what you should always follow.

Challenge Coin Etiquette

Belonging to the military tradition, challenge coins have a number of rules and etiquette to be followed by everyone, everywhere. This makes it important that you know the exact rules of the challenge coin game.

Coin Check

Coin check is a way of the identification and honor of armed forces and veterans. A coin check occurs when someone appeals to show coins to the members of a troop. This can be started by calling the coin check, silently, loudly, or just slamming your coins on the table.

Keep in mind that you can only challenge someone at any specific occasion. If someone challenges you, they can’t repeat that later that day.

Consequences of Coin Check

Everyone must exhibit their coins when called for a check, and if you are unable to generate it, there are consequences. In most cases, if you can’t produce coins, you will buy a drink for everyone.

Having your coin far away from yourself may not be sufficient to meet coin checks. If you need to walk more than four steps to get to your coins, you will also lose the challenge. Dropping your coin on the floor while you pull it out also disqualifies you for the coin check.

Losing your coin is another sign of disrespect. If you lose your coin in some way, don’t wait for someone to replace it – find your own alternative, so you don’t have empty hands.

Handling Challenge Coins

So, we have discussed that dropping or losing your coins are signs of disrespect, and is a way to quickly lose challenges. You should also keep it cleaned and polished. Dirty or dull coins are another thing that shows you are not showing respect to what you have earned.

When you have a coin check, others may want to take a closer look. Never give your coins to others to see it. If you give it to someone, it is considered that you have handed them the coins. Instead, place the coin on the table, or hold it in your palm, to let people see it.

Challenge coins are not jewelry, should not be worn like this. Do not wear it on the wrist or use it as the neck chain. Never drill a hole in it or connect any type of mounting frame to your coins.

How to Give a Challenge Coin?

Challenge coins are often viewed as signs of respect and honor for some achievements. You can receive a military coin to participate in specific operations, save a life of a soldier, or other things.

Many policemen, firefighters, also organize challenge coins as a way to honor their brothers in work. They are often used to express their appreciation for employees to special projects or other achievements.

Giving a challenge coin is done through a handshake where the giver passes it on to the recipient in that handshake. When you give someone a coin, you have a responsibility to make sure they know all about challenge coins.

This is all about challenge coins and the proper etiquette to follow. As mentioned, all military branches have their own challenge coins, such as marine unit coins, air force coins, etc. However, they can be used in civilian events as well.