The history of the Special Forces challenge coin is quite interesting, although it doesn’t date back as far as the Special Forces rings. The first military rings were presented to the 1835 graduating of the United States Military Academy. Ever since that time, the military ring has become an important part of military life as a visual reminder to the service and sacrifice of soldiers, Marines, sailors, and airmen.

Challenge coins are somewhat different. A story goes that the first challenge coin appeared in the 1940’s. The Lodge Act allowed non-citizens to join the Army and there was such an influx of different nationalities into the 10th Special Forces Group, that a coin was designed to prove that many of these non-English speaking soldiers were indeed a part of the 10th SFG. In 1969, Colonel Vernon E. Greene had a Special Forces challenge coin designed for a fundraiser. The front of the coin featured a Trojan Horse. The money would go towards a German wood carving of a Special Forces Trooper. This statue is now housing in a climate and temperature controlled environment and it considered a prized possession of the United States Army.

Since these two instances of challenge coins, hundreds of other designs have emerged. Nearly every military unit has a challenge coin, with the designs as unique as the missions. Challenge coins have a "special" use, too. Many a solider has had to buy rounds for his fellow men. The coin is slapped down on a table in a bar. The last soldier to get his coin out and on the table has to buy a round for all his friends. It’s a tradition that is quite popular today and just adds to the camaraderie of the military.

These challenge coins are a great collector’s item, but for something a bit more personal, you should look towards a military ring. The level of personalization on these rings is truly amazing. From the choice of precious metals, such as gold, silver, or Valedium, to the hundreds of insignia and emblems for the sides, military rings are as unique as the individual. Many of these rings are ordered while in the various military academies. Others are used to recognize service in a specialized unit or military campaign. The inside of these rings can be personalized, too, with a short inscription, date, or initials.

Military rings, such as those representing Special Forces, are an item of pride for these elite Army members. Some of these pieces of military jewelry are only worn for special occasions and ceremonies. Other military members wear these rings every day. Because these rings are so easy to order, many family members surprise their loved ones with a specially designed military ring. You can order right on the internet and it only takes a few minutes. You can have these rings shipped almost anywhere in the world. If you’re looking for a truly unique and special gift for your military friend or family member, then consider a military ring.