Prime Minister challenge coin
The Prime Minister challenge coin is a type of special recognition that is bestowed at the sole discretion of the Prime Minister of Westarctica, much in the same way that chivalric orders are by the Grand Duke of Westarctica. These coins were designed, ordered and purchased in the spring of 2019 by then Prime Minister Jordan Farmer.
Origins of the coins
Challenge coins have a long history within military culture, possibly going back as far as World War I. In recent years, they have branched out to non-military businesses and offices, including that of Presidents, Prime Ministers, even the Catholic Pope. Given Jordan's military background and desire to have a physical, on-the-spot method of recognition at his sole discretion, the creation of challenge coins for the office of the Prime Minister seemed appropriate. The coins were funded by Farmer using his own private money.
Features of the coin
The coin is 2.25 inches (57 mm) in diameter. The coins were produced using a die-casting process, with enamel coloring. The outside edge of both faces features an oblique line edge. Each coin is individually numbered, with the sequence running from 1-100. The obverse of each coin features the lesser arms of Westarctica, with the words "PRESENTED WITH GRATITUDE. OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER." The reverse of each coin features an image of the continent of Antarctica, with Westarctica represented by its flag coloring its territory, the sequence number of the coin, along with the words "GRAND DUCHY OF WESTARCTICA. ESTABLISHED 2001."
Coin Recipients
This table identifies the recipients/holders of coins, and the reason for bestowing it.
| Number | Name | Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| 001 | Jordan Farmer | 25 April 2019 | Retained for private collection |
| 002 | Grand Duke Travis | 29 April 2019 | Appreciation for guidance during transition into role as Prime Minister |
| 003 | President Kevin Baugh of Molossia | 27 April 2019 | Given as a token of friendship during diplomatic exchange |
| 004 | August Grappin | 2 May 2019 | Appreciation for stepping into Prime Minister's previous role as Minister of Citizenship & Immigration |