VMFA-225 Vikings USMC Challenge Coin

$15.95

In stock

Description

Showcase your Vikings pride with this quality cutout VMFA-225 challenge coin. It features the squadron’s insignia on one side, which is a Viking helmet with crossed axes. On the other side, it features a fighter jet with the slogan “Victory or Valhalla.”

USMC VMFA-225 Challenge Coin Features

  • VMFA-225 Vikings Challenge Coin
  • Bronze alloy.
  • Measures 2 inches
  • Individually packaged
  • Licensed by the U.S. Marine Corps.
  • Fast Delivery!

US Marine Corps VMFA-225

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 225 (VMFA-225), also known as the “Vikings,” is a U.S. Marine Corps squadron flying the F-35B Lightning II. Based at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, the squadron operates under Marine Aircraft Group 13 (MAG-13) and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3d MAW). Established in 1943, VMFA-225 participated in World War II and later conflicts, including Vietnam, where it provided close air support with A-6 Intruders. The squadron also served in the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2021, VMFA-225 transitioned from the F/A-18 Hornet to the advanced F-35B Lightning II.

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.

Additional information

Weight 0.5 lbs
Dimensions 3 × 3 × .25 in

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