The history unit commanders giving their solders coins goes as far back as at least ancient Egypt.  Records indicate that the ancient Egyptians were given golden bees or flies for individual acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty. An accumulation of these "flies and bees" entitled the recipient to receive land, goods, and elevated status within the Egyptian society.

The Roman Legions routinely minted and distributed commemorative coins and medals for members who participated in various campaigns and battles. History has indicated that the Romans actually used the occupying legion or units logo as the coin of the realm. These coins were used to purchase goods and services within the occupied jurisdiction.

During WWI unit coins were actually used as identification of an individual.  History proclaims that airmen shot down over enemy territory used their unit coins to positively identify themselves to their captors..

It was during the Vietnam Era that unit medallions or coins  really became the item of choice for individual commands to honor those individuals whom they wish to honor for their superior performance or to commemorate individuals who belonged to a specific unit or participated in a campaign

We at Military Stars and Stripes invite you to read the history of the coining tradition. Also, we invite you to share with us any stories or anecdotes you may have of the coining tradition.