Origins of Challenge Coins
There are a few different possible origins of how custom challenge coins started. One of the earliest known examples of an enlisted soldier being monetarily rewarded for valor took place in Ancient Rome. If a soldier performed well in battle that day, he would receive his typical day’s pay, and a separate coin as a bonus. Some accounts say that the coin was specially minted with a mark of the legion from which it came, prompting some men to hold on to their coins as a memento, rather than spend them on women and wine.
There are stories but one thing is certain: military and challenge coins go way back.
The challenge coin tradition has spread to other military units all these years, in all branches of service, and even to non-military organizations as well as the United States Congress, which produces challenge coins for members of Congress to give to constituents.
Today challenge coins represent organizations, units, and teams. They are used for celebrating an achievement, an anniversary or commemorating a special event. Custom challenge coins are given to build close-knit, lasting bonds between people who receive them and represent unity. Many groups including military, law enforcement, government agencies, schools, corporations and community groups use custom designed challenge coins to celebrate accomplishments.
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How Challenge Coins are made
Challenge coins are made in a similar way as customs race medals. First a mold is made, then each coin is stamped then electroplated. As with custom running medals, you can choose from different electroplating colors as well as color fills. Coin edge is also a popular option with coins as it gives the extra texture while handling it.
Ways that Challenge Coins are Used
Build Brand Loyalty
By gifting custom challenge coins to your employees, you are creating strong bond that money can’t buy. In the military, it is a symbol of loyalty and membership. It is something that members of the military are honored the receive. Every one of your employees or unit members will be thrilled to receive such a beautiful keepsake.
Show Appreciation
What is a better way to show gratitude and appreciation to your employees, unit staff with a specially designed custom coin? With custom challenge coins that incorporate your logo, military insignia and other elements, the sky is the limit in terms of creating a unique coin design.
Challenge coins are widely use in corporate world as well. It motivates and honors your staff members, impress clients and build relationships.
Honor Achievement
Challenge coins help you honor the achievements of members of your team or group in a unique and lasting way. The gesture and meaning of a specifically designed coin for an anniversary, milestone or project completion has a perceived way higher than the coin itself.
Special Occasion Celebration
When celebrating a company anniversary, holiday, commemorative anniversary, custom challenge coins are highly prized as awards and keepsakes for the occasion.
Challenge Coins Packaging Options
Here are some of our challenge coins packaging options:
- PVC pouch
- Coin capsule
- Acrylic box
- Velvet pouch
- Velvet box
Getting Your Custom Challenge Coin Started
Fill out our online quote form or call 323-379-4887 to get your project started today!