Giving a meaningful gift to a loved one in recovery is an incredible way to show support and celebrate their journey. Whether it’s their first day of sobriety or a monumental milestone, a thoughtfully chosen AA medallion can commemorate their achievement in a deeply personal way. But how do you pick the perfect token to honor their journey?
Your loved one’s story is full of heartbreaking and uplifting chapters. What if you could give them a beautiful way to relive those memories, cherish the struggles, and rejoice in the victories? That’s exactly what the right AA medallion can do — and we’re here to help you find it.
What’s an AA Medallion?
AA medallions, often called AA coins, sobriety chips, or AA tokens, are a small yet powerful symbol of sobriety. These medallions are given to individuals in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) to mark milestones in their recovery journey.
Ranging from 24 hours to decades of sobriety, these chips represent more than just time. Throughout their daily lives, individuals proudly display reminders of the courage it takes to stay sober and harbor hope. From the rugged charm of bronze to the sleek modernity of aluminum and custom engravings, medallions can be crafted to capture the essence of the individual who receives them.
An AA medallion isn’t just a simple keepsake. It’s a steadfast companion, silently testifying to the late nights, sacrifices, and momentary lapses of faith that ultimately gave way to triumph.
Where Did Alcoholics Anonymous Medallions Begin?
The tradition of AA medallions dates back to the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous. While the exact origins are debated, many trace it to Indianapolis in the 1940s. Members of local AA groups began handing out chips or tokens to commemorate key recovery milestones.
Another story credits Sister Ignatia of Akron, Ohio, who gave Sacred Heart medallions to individuals leaving the hospital after detoxing. To truly mean business about their sobriety, she advised them to return the medallion before temptation got the better of them and before taking another sip.
Since the early days of AA, those humble tokens of progress have become an honored tradition, serving as constant reminders of a commitment to personal growth.
Meaningful Symbolism Behind AA Medallions
What makes an AA medallion so significant? It’s not just the material or color, but it’s the meaning behind it. Each medallion marks a recovery milestone for individuals in recovery, a tangible reminder of their sober journey.
- Courage and Commitment: The first 24-hour AA chip represents the courage to start fresh and commit to a sober lifestyle.
- Progress and Perseverance: As time goes on, each medallion reflects the ongoing effort and growth the recipient has achieved.
- Support and Encouragement: These AA tokens remind individuals of the love and encouragement from family, friends, and their AA community.
For family members and friends, gifting an AA medallion shows support for the recipient’s journey. The medallion becomes a shared symbol of hope and healing.
AA Coin and Medallion Types and Colors
AA coins and medallions are available in a range of colors, each representing a specific length of sobriety. They help commemorate individuals’ hard work and progress in their recovery journey.
AA Coin Color Meanings
- White Coin: Given upon joining AA or renewing a commitment to sobriety.
- Silver Coin: Marks 24 hours of sobriety, symbolizing the first major step.
- Red Coin: Given at 30 days (1 month) of sobriety.
- Gold Coin: Celebrates 60 days (2 months) sober.
- Green Coin: Marks 90 days (3 months) of continuous sobriety.
- Purple Coin: Represents 4 months sober.
- Pink Coin: Given for 5 months of sobriety.
- Dark Blue Coin: Marks 6 months sober.
- Copper Coin: Celebrates 7 months of sobriety.
- Red Coin: Reappears to signify 8 months sober (often a darker shade than the 1-month chip).
- Purple Coin: Used again for 9 months.
- Gold Coin: Marks 10 months of sobriety.
- Green Coin: Given at 11 months as a prelude to the first-year milestone.
- Bronze Coin: Celebrates 1 year of sobriety, often one of the most cherished tokens.
For each year after, recipients will receive either gold, silver, or bronze AA coins. Typically, each chip is marked with the year of sobriety (e.g., 2 years, 3 years, and so on). These tokens often feature the AA circle and triangle symbol or the serenity prayer.
Types of Medallions
AA medallions come in various materials and designs to suit personal preferences and milestones, such as:
- Aluminum Medallions: Lightweight and affordable, often used for monthly milestones.
- Bronze Medallions: Durable and classic, commonly used for annual milestones.
- Gold-Plated Medallions: Luxurious tokens often given for significant milestones.
- Silver Medallions: A polished, elegant option.
- Plastic Chips: Simple, colorful options often used for monthly sobriety milestones.
- Glass Pocket Tokens: Unique and decorative, ideal for someone who values distinct designs.
- Engraved Medallions: Personalized with names, dates, or special messages, adding an extra layer of significance.
- Leather or Wooden Tokens: Rare, eco-friendly options with a rustic appeal.
- Keychains and Jewelry: Functional medallions that double as accessories, such as AA medallion holders or pendants.
When choosing an AA medallion, consider the recipient’s preferences, the milestone they’re celebrating, and whether they’d appreciate a unique or engraved design. These tokens are more than just chips. They’re reminders of perseverance, progress, and hope.
Engraved AA Medallions
Personalization can make an AA medallion even more special. Engraving allows you to add a meaningful message, date, or symbol to create a truly one-of-a-kind token.
Popular engraving ideas include the recipient’s sobriety date, inspirational quotes or affirmations, or the serenity prayer. Adding these personal details transforms a medallion from a simple recovery token into a cherished keepsake. Whether it’s a gift for a family member or a close friend, an engraved AA medallion serves as a constant reminder of their strength and support network.
Where To Buy AA Medallions
When you’re ready to purchase an AA medallion, it’s important to choose a reliable source that sells high-quality AA supplies. Here’s what to consider when choosing a retailer:
- Selection: Look for a variety of AA coins and chips, including different materials, colors, and designs.
- Customization Options: A store that offers engraving services lets you add personal touches to your gift.
- Quality: Choose durable materials like bronze or aluminum to ensure the medallion lasts.
- Service: Retailers like My 12 Step Store prioritize customer support and attention to detail, ensuring your gift is perfect for the recipient.
You can also find AA medallion holders and AA jewelry to pair with your medallion, creating a complete gift that the recipient will treasure.
Commemorate Your Sobriety With AA Coins, Pins, or Medallions From My 12 Step Store
Choosing the right AA medallion for a loved one is about more than the token itself. It’s a way to honor their progress, show your support, and provide a meaningful symbol they can carry daily. Whether it’s a custom-engraved medallion, a classic bronze token, or a vibrant recovery chip, the thought behind it makes all the difference.
At My 12 Step Store, we have everything you need to celebrate recovery milestones, from AA coins to NA tokens and even AA medallion holders. Browse our wide selection today and find the perfect way to honor your loved one’s incredible journey to sobriety.