More than 100 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2023, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. The law enforcement organizations that lose officers look for ways to commemorate their lives and service.
Police challenge coins have become a popular option for these groups. Their simple construction makes them an enduring reminder of a fallen friend. If you’ve lost a colleague, you’ll want a lasting reminder of that colleague’s commitment to duty and friendship.
Do you have an interest in the history of challenge coins? Do you want to know more about how police use custom coins to pay tribute? Read on for more about this practice.
Table of Contents
Challenge Coin Basics
Practices using coins to show membership in a group date back to the Roman Empire. Modern challenge coin practices started sometime before 1960, with World War I, World War II, and Korean War origins proposed. Similar practices existed among persecuted religious groups in Europe.
Today’s challenge coin traditions started in America. As returning military personnel entered police and fire departments, they brought the practice of challenge coins with them.
These groups have embraced the practice as an easy way to build affinity within groups. A challenge coin has a millennia-long association with duty and honor.
Fundraising With Police Challenge Coins
After the death of an officer, many members of the community ask what they can do to help that officer’s family. Spouses, children, siblings, and parents often rely on the now-deceased officer for financial support, finding themselves adrift and buried under bills after the loss.
Many police departments and community groups choose to create a challenge coins fundraiser as part of ongoing support for these families. Community members can buy a custom coin with a design honoring the deceased during the fundraising event. The proceeds help pay for funeral costs and other expenses that can mount after someone passes on.
Challenge coins have some advantages when fundraising for the family of a fallen officer. The distinct, high-quality image helps them stand out and last longer when compared to other fundraising items like T-shirts or mugs. Their association with duty through their use by military units also suits the police.
Unique Designs
Many sites online allow users to order challenge coins with customized designs and text. Custom coin options allow police to add design elements specific to the deceased officer, such as end-of-watch date, favorite Bible verse, or unit. When you make your own coin, it should evoke clear, personal memories of the officer.
While most challenge coins have a traditional round shape, not all groups choose that shape. Stars and shields stand out as common choices among police. Challenge coin designs make use of enamel and plating for more distinct images.
A Lasting Memory
Police challenge coins give their holders a lasting memento of a fallen officer. The long-lasting metal and enamel will help keep the memory of a life lived in service alive longer.
Do you want to learn more about the ways people mark lives well-lived? Take a look at a few of our lifestyle articles for more.
