Where did the “challenge” part of the coin come from?

Where did the “challenge” part of the coin come from?

Although challenge coins have a long history, the concept of the “challenge” associated with them originated after World War II in Germany.

American soldiers stationed in Germany engaged in a practice known as “Pfenning checks.” During these checks, each soldier was required to produce a Pfenning coin when called upon, or else they would be responsible for buying the next round of drinks.

Over time, this tradition evolved into the presentation of medallions or challenge coins. Soldiers would lay down their medallions, and if any member of the group failed to produce their coin, they would have to purchase a drink for the challenger and everyone else who presented a coin.

However, if all members had their coins with them, the original challenger was obliged to buy drinks for the entire group.