In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs, sobriety coins or medallions are often awarded to commemorate milestones in an individual’s recovery journey. These coins often feature a triangle surrounded by a circle, representing the program’s core principles.
The triangle itself symbolizes three interconnected concepts, known as the “Three Legacies” of AA:
- Unity: This represents the strong bond and support found within the fellowship of AA members. It emphasizes that recovery is not a solo journey and that individuals can find strength and encouragement in their shared experiences with others in the program. This concept also highlights the importance of the group’s common welfare over individual interests.
- Service: Service embodies the principle of giving back to the AA community and helping other individuals struggling with addiction. This can involve actions like sponsoring newcomers, assisting with meetings, or simply sharing one’s experience, strength, and hope with others. Helping others in recovery is seen as a way to strengthen one’s own sobriety.
- Recovery: This refers to the individual’s personal journey of overcoming addiction, healing from its effects, and building a new life free from substance dependence. It involves working the 12 steps, practicing honesty and accountability, and striving for emotional and spiritual growth.
Sobriety coins serve as tangible reminders of an individual’s progress and commitment to sobriety. They can offer a sense of pride, gratitude, hope, and faith during challenging times. Carrying a recovery coin can help reinforce the “one day at a time” approach to sobriety and remind individuals of the support system they have within the program.
While the circle and triangle symbol, and the concepts of unity, service, and recovery are deeply ingrained in the culture of AA and other 12-step programs, it’s important to remember that:
- These coins are not officially sanctioned by the General Service Conference of AA.
- Their use and design can vary from group to group.
- The AA logo, including the circle and triangle, was discontinued for official use in the 1990s due to legal and trademark concerns. However, it continues to be widely recognized and used informally within the recovery community.
What do the coins mean in AA recovery?
Good point! Silver Chip – 24 hours of sobriety. Red Chip – 30 days/1 month of sobriety. Gold Chip – 60 days/2 months of sobriety. Green Chip – 90 days/3 months of sobriety. Purple Chip – 4 months of sobriety.
How often do you get an AA coin?
I can help with that. Various colors are assigned to various lengths of sobriety. Typically, A.A. chips include: white to start or renew a commitment to sobriety; yellow for 30 days; red for 90 days; blue for six months; green for nine months; and a bronze chip for one or more years.
What to do with sobriety coins?
To Celebrate a Milestone. …
Tell Your Story. …
Turn Them into Jewelry. …
Create a Display. …
Create a Positive Habit Reminder. …
How Will You Use Your Alcoholics Anonymous Chips?
Do you get a coin at your first AA meeting?
The first type of AA coin given to a member is typically made from aluminum, is white, and represents someone’s first 24 hours of sobriety. Following your first AA meeting, you’ll often receive this coin as a gift.