You might be wondering what EDC coins are for and why people carry them if you’ve heard of or seen them. This post will explain what EDC coins are, what they symbolize, and why individuals carry them with them. There are two sides to every coin, and these reminder coins are no exception.
These one-of-a-kind challenge coins are double-sided and feature motivational phrases on both sides. They’re also useful if you’re doing heads or tails. The coins can be finished in two ways. You may buy them in antique bronze or antique silver finishes, depending on your desire and taste.
What exactly Are EDC Coins?
EDC Coins, Challenge Coins, or Everyday Carry Reminder Coins are coins fashioned of high-quality metal and engraved with meaningful phrases or sayings for the wearer. They’re typically 1.5 inches (38mm) in diameter, 0.12 inches (3mm) thick, and weigh around 1 ounce (28g). Stainless steel, brass alloys, or nickel-silver are frequently used, with various (antique) finishes produced by a chemical aging process. Some have a hole drilled in them so that they may be worn around the neck or as a keychain akin to a dog tag.
Why Do People Keep EDC Coins in Their Pockets?
EDC coins are more than just useful; as tokens, they have a specific role for the carrier. Military, law enforcement, firemen, and other service people may carry their challenge coins even while they are not on duty. People carry coins that were struck in the year they were born or commemorate significant events (wedding, birth of a child, etc.). Others contain life quotes, mottos, or sayings that carry unique meaning. Finally, some people merely keep a challenge coins in their pocket to jingle or fidget with. As you can see, people carry EDC coins for a variety of reasons. There are lots of other things you may EDC if none of the above appeals to you or if you want practicality.
The Historical Context and Why People Still Follow That Tradition
They’re traditionally provided to prove membership and boost morale when they’re challenged. They are also gathered by servicemen and women. In practice, challenge coins are usually awarded by unit commanders in appreciation of a member of the unit’s outstanding performance.
Nickel, copper, or pewter are the most common materials for challenge coins, and they come in a variety of finishes. Simple motifs are shown on some, while more complex designs and accents are seen on others. Challenge coins normally have a diameter of 1.5 to 2 inches and are around 1/10 inch thick. Their sizes and styles, however, differ significantly.
Dog tags, pentagons, arrowheads, and shields are all possible shapes. Soldiers in Rome would earn their usual day’s salary plus a special bonus coin if they excelled in battle one day. These bonus coins, according to some sources, were specifically struck with the markings of the armies from which they came. As a result, it appears that some troops saved their money as souvenirs rather than squandering them on vices.
These coins are still given out today to thank people for their hard work, especially in the military. Some administrators, on the other hand, regard them as if they were signatures or business cards that they might save in their own collections.
The Challenge About the Coin
Even though few people are aware of the challenge coin, those who have gotten one have found it to be highly significant and important. According to some accounts, “the challenge” began in Germany after World War II. Americans stationed in Germany began conducting “pfennig checks,” or checks for the German coin’s low denomination. Meanwhile, the challenger was the one who had to purchase the beverages if everyone could show a medallion.
Today, the situation is much the same. If you lose the challenge, you may refuse to buy beverages for everyone. However, keep in mind that this is a heinous offense. Furthermore, in order to win a challenge, you must keep your challenge coin within arm’s reach. If you don’t, you’re out of luck.
If you get a challenge coin today, it’ll almost certainly be through a secret handshake. This isn’t always the case, but it’s a custom that many people adhere to. Being a member of a police or fire service, or volunteering with the Lions Club, or the Boy Scouts, for example, can earn you a challenge coin. The challenge coin has become a highly collectable and long-lasting means for individuals to express their devotion to their country at any time and in any location.
One-of-a-Kind Challenge Coins
Life occurs, and it happens quickly. You’ll need reminders from time to time to help you through the day. There’s something about ancient coins that brings back memories. That is a tremendous emotion in and of itself. Your reminder coin will be with you if you’re having a terrible day and need to take a minute to simply breathe. You can sit on the park seat and rub your finger across the coin’s surface, repeating the etched phrases to yourself. You’ll be inspired and eager to get back on your feet in no time.
These one-of-a-kind challenge coins include motivational phrases on both sides – they’re double-sided, which is why people want to carry them. They’re also useful if you’re doing heads or tails. The coins can be finished in two ways. You may buy them in antique bronze or antique silver finishes, depending on your desire and taste. Long-lasting, made of high-quality metal with an antique finish and engravings of timeless phrases. As a result, they’re ideal as mementos. You may pass on wisdom to the next generation with these coins.
Each coin has been handcrafted and etched with care. These EDC challenge coins are inspirational coins that make excellent presents. Now is the time to purchase one, two, or three. I often see
Summary
Challenge coins are steeped in history and tradition. Furthermore, some challenge coins are creative, hold sentimental attraction, or are just too cool to not carry around on one’s person every day. It’s no wonder that people in the everyday carry community have a fond interest in carrying coins. Some of mine are pictured above.
