The law enforcement challenge coins

A law enforcement challenge coins, no matter what type it is - a law enforcement challenge coin or another type - is to show the dedication and pride of the carrier of the coin. The first challenge coins are said to have shown up around World War I. The U.S. Army Air Service pilots were adventurous types from Ivy League schools that joined the service to fly fighter planes.

The tale of the challenge coin is said to have been the idea of one such wealthy pilot who had bronze coins plated in gold made and stamped with their squadron's logo and gifted them to the other pilots in his squadron.

This was the beginning of what today has swept the country showing up in all walks of life. They are used as a way of showing pride and commitment to the different branches of the military, the firemen's association, the police force, government agencies, and company that contract for the military.

Typically the law enforcement challenge coins are anywhere from one and a quarter inches to two inches wide and are made from bronze, gold, or silver. Some are plain and some are fancy with colors. The edges may be plain or serrated like regular coins or they can be scalloped.

The pride with which the coins are received and carried is not understood by most. The brotherhood that comes with the challenge coins is a unique meaning that is most easily understood by those who serve together.