Description
Marine Sergeant Major Coin (SgtMaj) is made from polished bronze with a smooth cut edge. The front of the coin features the words ‘United States Marine Corps – Sergeant Major’. The center of the challenge coin displays a five-point star, three chevrons and four rockers. On the back of the coin is a raised Eagle, Globe & Anchor and the words ‘Semper Fidelis’.
This coin has the look and feel of genuine quality and would make a great addition to your collection or an affordable promotion gift that any Marine will appreciate. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Collect one for each rank you achieved! Made in USA.
Sergeant Major Marine Corps Challenge Coin Features
- USMC Sergeant Major (E9) design.
- Bronze alloy.
- Accented in bold colors.
- Measures 1.75 in.
- Professionally & individually packaged.
- Made in USA.
- Licensed by the U.S. Marine Corps.
Marine Corps Sergeant Major – SgtMaj
Sergeant Major (SgtMaj) is a prestigious rank within the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) category, holding the pay grade E-9.
This rank embodies the epitome of enlisted leadership, representing extensive experience and commitment to the Corps. Sergeant Majors serve as the principal enlisted advisors to senior Marine commanders, playing a vital role in strategic decision-making and policy implementation. Their responsibilities include overseeing the welfare, discipline, and morale of Marines, ensuring the effectiveness of their units.
The rank of Sergeant Major is a testament to a Marine’s leadership excellence and their profound impact on the Corps’ operations and ethos.
The USMC Challenge Coin
Marine Corps challenge coins are deeply rooted in military tradition. They symbolize honor, camaraderie, and individual accomplishments in the USMC.
Military challenge coins trace their roots back to ancient Rome, where custom coins rewarded exceptional feats. They later evolved into “portrait medals” during the Renaissance.
In the early US military, challenge coins were exclusive to high-ranking officers recognizing exceptional achievements. Notably, in World War I, a pilot’s coin saved his life by proving his identity. Some argue that modern challenge coin traditions, including in the Marine Corps, originated during the Vietnam War for bar entry.
Today, these coins signify specific achievements or service excellence and carry sentimental value, serving as tokens of significant moments in a Marine’s journey.
The Coin Check and Other Rules
A coin check is a spontaneous challenge where members must promptly display their coins.
Rules for coin checks are informal, allowing challenges to occur anywhere, anytime, by displaying the coin and shouting “coin check!” Accidentally dropping a coin counts as a deliberate challenge. Responding within ten seconds by presenting a unit’s coin is essential.
Consequences add a playful element: failure to produce a coin results in buying drinks for the challenger and others. Conversely, a successful challenge requires the challenger to buy a round for the group.
The tradition also includes coin theft, with successful thieves earning a drink. Coins are typically carried for easy access, with a widely accepted rule of “a step and a reach.” Presentation often occurs subtly during handshakes, with modifications like drilling holes or attaching them to belt buckles invalidating their challenge status.
