Carlos Bernal-Mizrachi, MD, Chief of Medicine/ ACOS Medical Service at St. Louis VA Medical System, Philip E. and Carolyn E. Cryer Professor in Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, was recently presented a VA Challenge Coin by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs at the VA health system.
A challenge coin is a small, personalized medallion bearing an organization’s insignia or emblem, carried by its members. These coins are highly valued and collected by service members and law enforcement personnel. Traditionally, commanders present them to recognize exceptional achievements, unwavering dedication, or exemplary service. They are also exchanged as a token of recognition during official visits to an organization.
Origin of Challenge Coins
The origins of the challenge coin are steeped in history, with various narratives tracing their roots from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, where they commemorated significant events.
One popular account places the tradition’s inception during the Vietnam War. An Army infantry unit’s bar reportedly implemented a unique rule to deter non-infantry personnel: “outsiders” without proof of combat experience were required to purchase a round of drinks for the entire bar. Initially, “proof” involved enemy ordnance, but this quickly escalated to dangerous items. Consequently, a coin-sized item featuring the unit’s insignia became the accepted form of verification. This practice evolved into the “coin check,” continuing today, which is why they are known as “challenge” coins.
Receiving this challenge coin is a tremendous honor. It reflects the teamwork and dedication I share with our service members. This coin symbolizes our strong commitment to one another in our mission to deliver innovative research, education, and the best care for our veterans.
Carlos Bernal-Mizrachi, MD
The Challenge Protocol
A “coin challenge” can be initiated at any time. The challenger draws their coin and either slaps it or places it on a table or bar. In noisy environments, continuously rapping the coin on a surface can also initiate a challenge. (Accidentally dropping a challenge coin is considered a deliberate challenge to all present). Every individual challenged must immediately produce their organization’s coin. Failure to do so requires the individual to purchase a round of drinks for the challenger and all others who successfully produced their coins. However, if everyone challenged can produce their coin, the challenger is then responsible for buying the round of drinks for the group.
A coin’s “rank” is determined by the rank of the presenter. For instance, a coin presented by an Admiral would outrank one from a Vice Admiral, both of which would outrank a coin from a Captain. Traditionally, coins are presented during a handshake.