Description
Marine Corporal Coin (CPL) is made from polished bronze with a smooth cut edge. The front of the coin features the words ‘United States Marine Corps – Corporal’. The center of the challenge coin displays crossed rifles and two chevrons. 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 a promotion gift that any Marine will appreciate. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Collect one for each rank you achieved! Made in USA.
Marine Corporal USMC Challenge Coin Features
- USMC Corporal (E4) 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 Corporal – Cpl
Corporal (Cpl) in the USMC is a significant rank classified under pay grade E-4. It represents the first level of the non-commissioned officer (NCO) hierarchy, signaling a substantial advancement in responsibility, leadership, and expertise.
Corporals are entrusted with more significant duties, including the direct leadership and supervision of subordinate Marines, typically within their specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). This rank demands a higher level of tactical and technical proficiency, as well as the ability to effectively manage and mentor junior Marines.
Elevation to Corporal is a recognition of a Marine’s growing leadership capabilities and commitment to the Corps’ mission.
About Marine Corps Challenge Coins
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.
Marine Coin Check, Rules, and Traditions
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.
