Harley Challenge Coins
There is a tradition in the U.S. military for all members of a unit to carry a special coin symbolizing unit identity and esprit de corps?
Known as challenge coins with bonds forged in combat or service to your country from a thousand miles from home, these custom coins minted for military units – capture in metal the essence of their affiliation and their pride. Like much in the military the origins of the challenge coin are a matter of a lot of debate, but it’s reported that units carried a coin identifying themselves as members. If challenged, the challenge-eee will have to display their coin, or face a consequence.
In any given week I get a number of comments similar to… “like your blog, thought you’d be interested and please pass along XYZ” with an associated URL to “hawk their wares.” Many make it to the SPAM/delete folder. However, an email from Mike over at Northwest Territorial Mint (NTM) mentioned right off that he worked at the place (honesty counts in my book!) and stated they were now an official licensee of Harley-Davidson. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Auburn, Wa., NTM has a great reputation of producing die-struck coins and medallions for governments, private organizations and now has designed and minted several products emblazoned with the iconic “Harley-Davidson” logo.
These coins are more than just simple disks of metal — they often become symbols of achievement and recognition, or timeless souvenirs and keepsakes that represent achievements of high importance to their owners. The popularity of challenge coins have moved beyond the military, where NASCAR, the NFL and World Series of Poker all have their own challenge coins.
I’ve got something new to add to my wish list!
Photo courtesy of NTM. Full disclosure – Northwest Harley Blog is not affiliated or related to Northwest Territorial Mint.
My how things change.
