what is a challenge coin

A challenge coin is a small, custom-minted medallion or coin that symbolizes membership, achievement, or affiliation with a particular group, often bearing the organization's insignia or emblem. They originated from military tradition and serve as powerful symbols of honor, unity, identity, and recognition. Challenge coins are typically awarded to commemorate service, celebrate milestones, or reinforce a team’s identity, and they have become popular across various organizations including police, fire departments, corporations, and nonprofits. The tradition also includes a social "coin challenge" where members show their coins to prove membership and camaraderie, sometimes leading to a friendly wager such as buying the next round of drinks if someone cannot produce their coin.