Description
Marine 2nd Lieutenant Coin (2nd LT) is made from polished bronze with a smooth cut edge. The front of the coin features the words ‘United States Marine Corps – Second Lieutenant’. The center of the challenge coin displays a gold colored bar. 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 from OCS that any Marine will appreciate. Arrives professionally & individually packaged. Collect one for each rank you achieved! Made in USA.
2nd Lieutenant USMC Challenge Coin Features
- USMC 2nd Lieutenant (O1) 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 2nd Lieutenant – 2ndLt
Second Lieutenant (2ndLt) in the USMC is the initial rank for commissioned officers, classified under pay grade O-1.
This rank marks the beginning of a Marine’s journey as an officer, equipped with a college degree and a commission that carries the special trust and confidence of the President of the United States. Second Lieutenants are responsible for leading at the platoon or company level, relying on guidance and intent from senior officers. Their role includes developing leadership skills, managing personnel, and understanding the intricacies of military operations and tactics.
The rank of Second Lieutenant is a critical phase, setting the foundation for a Marine’s future leadership and career development within the officer corps.
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.
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.
