The Military Coin: Past And Present

A military coin is a small coin that has the military's insignia or emblem on it. This is a coin that is carried by the members of the armed forces in order to be able to prove that they really are in the Army, Navy, Marines or Airforce whenever they are challenged to prove their membership.

Origins Of The Military Coin

The origins of the military coin is surrounded by a great deal of debate. There are many organizations and services that claim to be where this coin has originated from.

One legend suggests that an Ivy Leaguer who was also a wealthy lieutenant ordered a small, solid-bronze medallions be made. He then gave these military coins to the other pilots in his squadron. This military coin proved to be quite valuable. One of these pilots wore this military coin in a leather pouch around his neck. When he was captured by the Germans upon the damage of his plane, all of his belongings were confiscated. However, they did not see his military coin. Whenever the British bombarded the area in which he was being held, he was able to escape during this confusion. While he was able to wear civilian attire to escape recapture by the Germans, he still had his military coin to be able to prove that he was indeed a Frenchman.

The Military Coin Today

Today the tradition surrounding this soldier's life have been told to many other people who have also served in the military. For this reason, it has now become a tradition amongst flying squadrons, as well as with other military units in the various branches of the armed services, are now using military coins as well. In fact, these coins are also sometimes used within organizations that are in no way related to the military. For instance, these military coins are now given to members who join specific organizations, as awards that are used to improve morale, they are oftentimes also sold to commemorate special occasions and they are even used as fundraisers at times.

Most recently, President Bill Clinton displayed several racks of his military coins. He received these coins from U.S. Service members. This meaningful event took place on the credenza behind his Oval Office desk. Whenever pictures were taken of him in his office these coins can be seen in the background of his official portrait. This portrait can now be seen hanging in the White House next to the pictures of the other Presidents.