For the newer Dogs in the Yard

“The History of the Challenge Coin goes something like this:”
During World War I, American volunteers from all parts of the country filled the newly formed flying squadrons. In one squadron, a wealthy lieutenant ordered medallions struck in solid bronze and presented them to his unit.

Shortly after acquiring the medallions, a pilots’ aircraft was severely damaged by ground fire. He was forced to land behind enemy lines and was immediately captured by a German patrol. In order to discourage his escape, the Germans took all of his personal identification except for the small leather pouch around his neck that contained the coin. He did escape; however, he was without personal identification.

He showed the medallion to his would-be executioners and 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.

To ensure that all members carried their coin at all times - a challenger would ask to see the coin. If the challenged could not produce a medallion, they were required to buy a drink of choice for the member who challenged them. If the challenged member produced a medallion, then the challenging member was required to pay for the drink. This tradition continues.

So if you catch me without my coin then I owe you a drink of your choice. ColdOne collected last year at Blade. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

I try not to leave home without it

Dan

I hope I remember to wear mine, because I am likely to be where adult beverages are sold. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/loopy.gif" alt="" />

I don't recall any posts about someone finding a good, non-custom challenge coin holder. I carried mine in the plastic envelope that it came in for a while, but that's pretty much disintegrated. I've been to the Louisville Numismatic Exchange few times when I was younger, but not in several years -- they carry coin collecting supplies, so perhaps I should check there.

ok im new to the yard and i was just going to ask how do you get the coin cause now knowing the story behind it and every thing i would like to get one some how

I believe I got in on that session too, unless this was a totally different boozing event. I know there were at least a few. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

[color:"blue"]Meet me at the bar!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />[/color]

im pretty sure p0p has his encased in leather. it is to be worn around his neck.

iirc....bruce found some plastic coin holders for them.they add a bit to the diameter of the coin though

I was wondering if ppl actually carried them in their pockets..I probably would.