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History of the Challenge Coin
The tradition of “Challenge Coin” originated during World War I. American volunteers had formed flying squadrons. Each member of one of these
squadrons had a solid bronze medallion produced by the squadron’s wealthy
lieutenant. One member of this squadron escaped from German captivity and
was re-captured by the French. The French were about to execute the
American not knowing he was a friend. But the squadron medallion worn by
the American was recognized by one of the French. The American flyer’s
life was spared.
During and after World War I, a tradition began to ensure that members
carried their medallion or coin at all times. This goal was pursued by
having a member challenge another member by tapping the medallion on the
bar. If the challenged member could not show the medallion, the challenged
member had to buy a drink of choice for the challenger. If the challenged
member could show a medallion, the challenger had to buy the drink. For
many years after World War I, surviving members kept this tradition alive.
Today, Challenge Coins aren’t just for the military. They are for
everyone! Challenge coins are great for police & fire departments,
schools, retirements, weddings, colleges, fraternities, clubs and many
more. Medallions can be designed for your unique organization. You can
collect or trade them.
Challenge Coin Order Form -
download here
Name_____________________________________
Address___________________________________
City, State, Zip_____________________________
Fire & Iron Station___________________________
E-Mail Address______________________________
Number of Coins wanted______ x $15.00 =_______
Payment MUST be mailed or turned in with order form.
Return all forms with payment to:
Rick Brown
Fire & Iron Station 36
5237 Rowe Trail
Pace, Florida 32571
Make checks payable to Rick Brown |
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Challenge Coin Rules
Note: A "Coin Check" consists of a Challenge and a Response.
1. RULES:
A.
The challenge is initiated by drawing your coin, holding it in the air by
whatever means possible and state, scream, shout or otherwise verbally
acknowledge that you are initiating a coin check. Another, but less vocal
method is to firmly place it on the bar, table, or floor (this should
produce an audible noise which can be easily heard by those being
challenged, but try not to leave a permanent imprint). If you accidentally
drop your coin and it makes an audible sound upon impact, then you have
just "accidentally" initiated a coin check. (This is called paying the
price for improper care of your coin.)
B.
The response consists of all those persons being challenged drawing their
coin in a like manner.
C.
If you are challenged and are unable to properly respond, you must buy a
round of drinks for the challenger and the group being challenged.
D.
If everyone being challenged responds in the correct manner, the
challenger must buy a round of drinks for all those people they
challenged.
E.
Failure to buy a round is a despicable crime and will require that you
turn-in your Coin to the issuing agency.
2. WHEN - WHERE:
A.
Coin checks are permitted, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE.
3. EXCEPTIONS:
A.
There are no exceptions to the rules. They apply to those clothed or
unclothed. At the time of the challenge you are permitted one step and one
arm reach to locate your coin. If you still cannot reach it – PAY UP
SUCKER!
4. A COIN IS A COIN
A.
A coin on a keychain is a keychain.
B.
A coin on a necklace is a necklace.
Challenge Coin Order Form -
download here
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