Depending on who you ask, the “challenge coin” has historical roots dating back from nearly one-hundred years to as early as the Roman Empire. The most common narrative purports that a wealthy American lieutenant in World War I distributed matching bronze coins to his unit members before they were deployed. A fighter pilot from his unit was shot down and forced to land in hostile German territory. The pilot was subsequently captured and temporarily held in a detention facility that was later attacked by British Forces. This attack afforded the American an opportunity to later escape.

At some point after his escape, and without many of his personal belongings with him, the American was confronted by French soldiers who detained him. He was presumed to be a German spy at the time, which led the French to nearly take his life. The American pleaded with the French Officer that he was indeed an ally, and presented a challenge coin he had received from his Lieutenant some time before being deployed. The coin was struck with the American’s Unit insignia and other identifying marks, one of his French captors recognized the squadron insignia on the medallion. They delayed his execution long enough for him to confirm his identity. Instead of shooting him they gave him a bottle of wine.

The challenge coin tradition has spread to other military units, in all branches of service, and even to non-military organizations as well. Today, challenge coins are given to members upon joining an organization, as an award to improve morale, and sold to commemorate special occasions or as fundraisers.