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The challenge coin is said to have started in with the Army Air Forces, which became the Air Force. It started as a way to signify who had served in a specific squadron together. However, there are many versions of how it all started. Some stories begin during World War I, while others begin during the Vietnam era. Regardless of how it started, it was a tradition that has survived many years. It's a tradition that proves a soldier's loyalty and pride in his squadron. At one point, it is said that soldiers who were almost killed by an ordinance would wear a piece of it for luck. However, this seemed to be a rather bulky and occasionally dangerous trend. Commanders of the soldiers then deemed that having squadron coins on their person at all times would be all the luck they needed. The point of carrying one at all times is to prove one's pride in their squadron. When visiting a bar, a soldier would place his on the bar as a challenge. Anyone who didn't have one would have to buy the next round. However, if everyone had theirs, then the first person that challenged everyone had to buy the round. One other story revolved around the German Pfennig, a coin that was only worth a fraction of a penny. If a soldier called out a Pfennig check, those who produced a Pfennig would be considered nearly broke. Those who could not produce the Pfennig had enough money not to save them, and therefore could afford to buy the next round. The origins of the challenge coin are a mystery. However, the use of them seems to be universal. Produce one or buy drinks for everyone else. This tradition of showing pride may have just been another kind of drinking game. sfDisplay.com, LLC providing excellence in high quality challenge coin and other collectible display case products and customer service. For more info please visit at (http://sfdisplay.com)
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