Challenge Coin Rules - Coin Check
- The challenge is initiated by drawing your coin, holding it in the air by whatever means possible and state, shout or otherwise verbally acknowledge that you are initiating a coin check. You may also place it or strike it on a hard surface such as a table. If you accidentally drop your coin and it makes an audible sound it is still considered a challenge.
- The response consists of all those present responding in a like manner within 15 seconds. At the time of the challenge you are allowed one step and an arm’s reach to locate your coin. All coin holders present will participate during a challenge. A response can be with any other challenge coin.
- If there is a challenge and a person is unable to respond then the individual(s) without their coin are required to buy a meal and or beverage of choice for the individual who issued the challenge.
- If everyone being challenged responds with their coin then the person who challenged is required to buy a meal for all those he/she challenged.
- Failure to buy a meal and or beverage is considered despicable and a failure of unit trust. Some units require that you return your coin should you do so.
- Coin checks are allowed anytime, anywhere and anyplace.
- There are no exceptions to the rule.
- An organization or unit coin is a coin. Belt buckles are belt buckles, key chains are key chains. However a coin placed in some fashion around the neck is considered a coin.
- You are responsible for your coin. If someone else is looking at or accidentally drops your coin on a hard surface you are responsible for the consequences of the challenge. However, no one can borrow your coin and force a challenge.
- Once you agree to carry a coin it comes with an obligation of group loyalty and traditions of the coin. Don’t accept a coin if you do not share the values and beliefs of the group shared with a willingness to respect the traditions of the challenge coin.
If you carry this coin you do so with an obligation to those ideals it embraces and all challenge coin rules apply. May you carry the coin in good spirit, good health and always with a sense of nobility.
Source:
https://dps.syr.edu/law-enforcement/history-of-the-challenge-coin/