What Are AA Chips and Medallions?
AA chips and medallions are small, powerful mementos handed out to celebrate milestones and progress in the journey of recovery through Alcoholics Anonymous. They’re not just collectible coins; they’re reminders of resilience, personal victories, and the ongoing promise of hope. When someone first walks into AA meetings, they might receive their first chip—a shining symbol that marks a fresh start and the strength to keep going. Over time, these medallions become treasured items, each carrying a unique story of perseverance and the meaningful connection to the AA groups and fellowship that helped them stay the course. Whether you’re searching for your own milestone piece or one to give as a gift, these tokens mean far more than their size lets on.
History of AA Chips and Medallions
The tradition of giving AA chips stretches back decades, possibly to the 1940s. Like so much of the Alcoholics Anonymous story, there are legends and lively debates about where it all began—some say it started with early AA groups in the Midwest who wanted to honor members as they remained sober for certain periods. Others think the roots go even further, to returning soldiers who found deep meaning in tangible tokens of their victories. Over the years, the exact origin may have faded into the background, but the power these medallions have in marking a sobriety milestone has only grown stronger. Today, these coins have become a global tradition that celebrates every individual’s dedication to recovery.
Standard Sizes of AA Chips and Medallions
Typical Diameter
Almost every AA chip found at meetings or available at my12stepstore.com fits within a familiar frame: most chips and medallions measure roughly 1.34 inches (34mm) to 1.5 inches (38mm) in diameter. This size isn’t random—it’s just right to fit comfortably in the palm, slip into a pocket, or display in an AA chip holder at home. You’ll feel that balance when you turn one over in your hand: substantial enough to feel its presence, but never bulky or awkward.
Thickness and Weight
Beyond just diameter, the thickness of AA medallions matters too. Standard chips usually range between 2mm and 3mm thick. Bronze and commemorative medallions, especially those designed for annual anniversaries, tend to be a bit weightier. That satisfying heft in your palm makes the moment feel all the more real. Lighter aluminum chips are common for newcomers, while anniversary coins and sobriety chips—especially the long-term annual variety—often have a more substantial, almost medal-like presence.
Material and Finish Options
Material gives every AA medallion its own personality. Most common are classic bronze, lightweight aluminum, or vibrant plastic. Each material offers its own tactile experience—bronze feels dignified, while plastic chips have a cheerful lightness. Modern enamel and bling medallions up the ante with sparkling stones, vibrant colors, and even custom text to mark very personal moments. Glossy or matte, smooth or textured, there are options for every story and preference. Special editions, like the sacred heart medallion, feature ornate designs and a premium finish for moments that deserve extra reverence.
Different Types of AA Chips and Medallions
Bronze AA Medallions
Bronze AA medallions are classic keepsakes, especially for significant anniversaries. The weight and rich tone give these coins a sense of permanence—like anchoring your recovery in a tangible way. Many feature raised graphics or inscriptions, with some even including the Serenity Prayer or chips customized for specific years. Those who have remained sober for long periods often treasure these, stacking up a proud collection that tells their ongoing story.
Aluminum & Plastic Chips
When someone first starts their journey, they often receive aluminum or plastic chips. These are ideal for frequent distribution at regular AA meetings, inexpensive yet meaningful. While they’re lighter and often bolder in color, they still symbolize the initial steps, from the 24-hour sobriety chip to the first 30 or 60 day tokens. Their cheerful colors and affordability help aa groups mark every small win with ceremony and enthusiasm.
Enamel & Bling Medallions
There’s a new wave of bling medallions bursting onto the AA scene—complete with shiny enamel, glittering stones, or intricate patterns. These are perfect for individuals who want their achievement to shimmer and stand out, or for those gifting sobriety coins as a heartfelt surprise. They’re also popular for people who collect na medallions, celebrating recovery milestones for every path someone takes.
Symbolism Behind the Size
The size of an AA chip or medallion isn’t just practical—it’s symbolic. The feel of the coin, the weight when it rests in your palm, can be grounding. Each medallion sits in the hand as a reminder that recovery itself isn’t invisible; it’s something real, earned, and held onto. For some, the progression from lightweight aluminum to heavy bronze mirrors the growth and depth achieved through the AA program. The journey, physically represented, helps amplify the sense of achievement at every step.
Why AA Gives Medallions
Giving sobriety chips goes far beyond simple celebration. These tokens are markers of courage and commitment for every individual attending AA meetings. For many, receiving chips marks the beginning of a tradition—one supporting daily choices and celebrating progress both big and small. A chip handed out isn’t just a coin; it builds community, brings a smile, and adds another voice to the chorus affirming, “you are not alone.” In the act of giving, sponsors and peers remind newcomers and old-timers alike of the power each chip (and each day) holds.
Where to Buy AA Chips and Medallions
A huge variety of aa chips, coins, and medallions—including sobriety coins and specialty tokens for na medallions or sacred heart medallion designs—are available at trusted retailers like my12stepstore.com. With free shipping offers, discreet delivery, and a dazzling array of choices, there’s something for every personality and milestone. For groups or individuals, bulk discounts and single purchases make it easy, and specialty items like aa pins or an aa chip holder also ship with minimal fuss.
Displaying and Preserving Your Medallions
Showcasing recovery coins is an act of pride. Special aa chip holders, display frames, or even shadow boxes allow these medallions to become part of the home—visible reminders of how far things have come. Some people keep their aa coins in a pocket as a quiet anchor. Others line them up beside the bed, where that first look in the morning offers encouragement for the day ahead. However they’re preserved, these tiny tokens carry a big story: perseverance, hope, and the joy of sobriety milestones.
Conclusion
No matter where the journey begins, AA chips and medallions become lifelong companions—proof of every struggle overcome and every bright tomorrow pursued. Whether searching for a first chip, a bronze coin marking years of success, or a sparkling enamel medallion, it’s clear these tokens do more than celebrate time; they shine as testaments to personal growth and collective recovery. Shop with reliable sources like my12stepstore.com for authentic, high-quality aa chips, unique commemoratives, and the support that only a caring recovery community can provide—plus the added benefit of free shipping on most orders.