ISMC 236 Birthday Ball Coin – A Story of Brotherhood and Tradition

This is a commemorative challenge coin from the 236th Marine Corps Birthday Ball (November 10, 2011). It was issued to celebrate the Corps’ founding in 1775—236 years of “Semper Fi” and unbroken service. Design Breakdown (both sides are identical in this style): • Antique silver/gray finish with high-relief details and a thick, rope-twist edge—gives it that heavy, timeless Marine feel. • Central EGA (Eagle, Globe, and Anchor): The eagle perched proudly on the globe, wings spread, anchor crossed behind. Classic, raised, and detailed—symbolizing air, land, and sea dominance. • Outer ring text: U.S. MARINE CORPS at the top in raised lettering, 236th BIRTHDAY BALL arched at the bottom. • Simple, elegant, no-frills: No flashy colors, no unit-specific flair—just the pure emblem of the Marine Corps and the milestone year. The rope border adds a nautical, steadfast touch. The ball is where Marines pause, dress blues on, reflect on 236 years of sacrifice, hear the Commandant’s message, cut the cake with the youngest/oldest Marine, and toast the fallen. This coin was handed out (or traded) at the event—probably after the speeches, the reading of the Marine Corps Birthday message, and the traditional cake-cutting ceremony. It’s a quiet reminder of the night you stood shoulder-to-shoulder with brothers and sisters in arms, reminded why you wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.