Description
1st Marine Division Coin is made from polished bronze with a beveled edge. The front of the coin features the words ‘1st Marine Division Always Faithful’ in bold lettering against a black background. The 1st Marine Division emblem is at the center of the challenge coin. On the back of the coin is the Eagle, Globe & Anchor and the words ‘United States Marine Corps’.
This coin has the look and feel of genuine quality and would make a great addition to your collection or a special gift that any Leatherneck will appreciate. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Made in USA.
Marine Corps 1st Marine Division Challenge Coin Features
- 1st Mar Div design.
- Bronze alloy.
- Accented in bold colors.
- Measures 1.5 in.
- Professionally & individually packaged.
- Made in USA.
- Licensed by the U.S. Marine Corps.
1st Marine Division – 1st MARDIV
The 1st Marine Division (1st MARDIV) of the USMC, headquartered at Camp Pendleton, California, serves as the ground combat element of the I Marine Expeditionary Force. It’s the oldest, largest active duty division in the Marine Corps, with approximately 22,000 personnel.
Known as “The Old Breed,” this multi-role, expeditionary ground combat force has a storied history, including significant roles in World War II’s Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa battles. Its structure comprises a headquarters battalion, four infantry regiments, and various supporting battalions, including reconnaissance, light armored reconnaissance, combat engineer, and assault amphibian battalions, epitomizing a versatile and combat-ready force.
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, 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.
