A challenge coin is a small two-sided coin or medallion that bears a logo or insignia of a particular organization. The purpose is to show affiliation or membership with an entity such as a military unit, club, law enforcement, fire department, or given for achievement. Challenge coins make a perfect commemorative item or gift that can be displayed in many ways. Create a lasting bond when you give a custom challenge coin.

The term challenge coin has multiple origin stories, all filled with rich military history. In addition to the U.S. Army Air Service story, wherein U.S. Army Air Service volunteers were the first to receive challenge coins, another backstory dictates who picks up the tab. Military lore indicates that individuals would need to show a challenge coin to prove their association with the military. If you were challenged and did not have a coin to show your membership, you would have to buy the challenger a drink. This practice led to the term challenge coin, as members were challenged to prove their affiliation. The tradition of military challenge coins persists widely today and has even led some units to create their own personalized coins.

Yes! While they may trace their history to the military, challenge coins aren't exclusive to military units; they've made their way into the business world as recognition coins bearing a corporate logo and message. Many businesses and volunteer organizations now use them to commemorate anniversaries, recognize an achievement, or as trade show giveaways. Coins are a sign of membership and unity, and creating a challenge coin design for your organization makes them unique tokens.

Simply choose a design you love. Each engravable coin may have a different number of characters allowed per line. Keep in mind that spaces and punctuation count as well. You can add any message you want; but many people include the person’s name, important dates, or a special motto. Simply click on the engrave button and fields will open for you to write your message. Be sure to review your text carefully. Once you have completed your message, click to approve and checkout as normal. It is that easy!

Engraved challenge coins start at $16.98 with engraving. You can also choose not to engrave the coin for a lower cost. Price depends on the type of coin, the metals used and if it is officially licensed by the military.

We offer personalized challenge coins for all U.S. military branches including Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.

Yes! Visit our custom challenge coins page to get started on creating a custom design that reflects your vision.