History of the Challenge Coin

The history of the challenge coin has been relayed differently by many people.  Some say that a challenge coin dates back as far as the Roman Empire when it has been told that soldiers were presented coins in order to recognize them for their achievements.  A popular story concerning challenge coins that many people have heard dates back to World War II.  The story is of an American pilot who was shot down and captured by the Germans then placed in a POW camp which he later escaped from.  After escaping he was discovered by a French patrol who the pilot presented his coin to during questioning.  This coin proved to the French that the pilot was in fact an American whom they then assisted in reuniting with his squadron.  All of the branches of the armed forces have their own challenge coin as well as a story to go along with it and this is just one of them. 

We at West Webster issued our first challenge coin after the events of 12/24/12 to remember the members that were involved in that tragic event.  In mid to late 2014 West Webster decided to issue a second challenge coin to represent the department and its members.  We are now proud to offer this coin for sale to those who support us.  For a donation of $20 we will ship you a coin as a token of our gratitude for your support. 

Coin description:  The coin is a 2 inch maltese cross on the front is the WWFD scramble with West Webster FD in the leaves of the cross.  On the back is a stamped image of our first fire truck with our established year in the leaves of the cross. 

To donate and receive a coin please click on the link below.