Description
Marine Colonel Coin is made from polished bronze with a smooth cut edge. The front of the coin features the words ‘United States Marine Corps – Colonel’ and silver eagle insignia. 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 a Marine officer of this grade will appreciate. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Collect one for each rank you achieved! Made in USA.
Marine Colonel USMC Challenge Coin Features
- USMC Colonel (O-6) 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 Colonel
Colonel (Col) in the USMC is a high-ranking field-grade officer position, assigned to pay grade O-6.
This rank is emblematic of significant leadership and operational expertise. Colonels typically command regiments, or serve as brigade executive officers or division staff members. Their responsibilities are extensive, encompassing strategic planning, resource management, and overseeing large-scale operations and training programs. Colonels play a crucial role in shaping the direction and effectiveness of their units, requiring a deep understanding of military strategy, leadership, and Marine Corps values.
Attainment of the rank of Colonel signifies a Marine officer’s extensive experience, exceptional leadership skills, and a steadfast commitment to the mission and principles of the Marine Corps.
About USMC 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.
USMC Coin Check, Traditions, and 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.
