Join in a Long-Standing Tradition of Excellence with Vietnam Veteran Challenge Coin

Challenge coins recognize outstanding service, raise morale, or unify a unit within the US military.  Often bearing the insignia or emblem of a military unit or organization, they are meaningful symbols of being a part of something bigger than themselves and are a great source of pride. 

This coin honors Vietnam Veterans.  It pictures three medals awarded to service members who fought in the Vietnam War.  They are the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. 
The National Defense Service Medal was awarded to any member of the US Armed Forces who served on active duty during the war.  It pictures an eagle holding a sword and olive branch, symbolizing strength and a desire for peace.

The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to all service members who served in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia during the war.  It shows a dragon behind a grove of Bamboo trees.

The Vietnam Campaign Medal was given to US service members who supported the South Vietnamese military in their effort to reclaim their land from the communist North Vietnamese and the Viet Cong.  Members of the South Vietnam military were also given this award.

Challenge Coins - A Custom That Began Over 100 Years Ago

During World War I, a wealthy American lieutenant had bronze medals created for each man in his flying squadron.  When one pilot’s plane crashed and he was captured by the Germans, they took all his identification except the squad medal, carried in a pouch around his neck.  The pilot finally escaped and made it to a friendly French outpost, but had no way to prove he wasn’t an impostor.  The French were going to execute him until he showed his medallion.  Thankfully, one of the French soldiers recognized it, and the pilot’s identity was confirmed soon after.  The French gave him a bottle of wine as an apology for their mistake.
After that, every man in the pilot’s squadron carried his medal at all times.  This was enforced by the periodic issuing of a challenge.  When one man issued a challenge to another, he’d have to produce his meal immediately or else buy a drink for the challenger – giving the medallion the nickname “Challenge Coin.”
Today, Challenge Coins are awarded for major accomplishments and as recognition of membership in a military group.  They are usually presented by way of a handshake.  The coins have become a long-standing military tradition.  Even the secretary of each branch of the armed services and the President of the United States distribute the specially designed coins. 

These pieces of proud military history and tradition have become popular collector’s pieces. Order your Challenge Coin today.