Medallion
A larger, often more ornate version of a sobriety coin, typically given for significant milestones like yearly anniversaries. Medallions are usually made of higher-quality materials and feature detailed designs.
Recovery medallions are the premium tier of sobriety tokens. While the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "sobriety coin," it often refers specifically to heavier, more elaborately crafted tokens made from bronze, brass, zinc alloy, or precious metals. Medallions are typically awarded for longer-term milestones — one year and beyond — when the occasion calls for something more substantial.
The front of a medallion commonly displays the Roman numeral or number of years achieved, along with the Serenity Prayer or program-specific text. The reverse often features the AA triangle, NA logo, or a personalized message. The added weight and quality of a medallion give it a tangible presence that reinforces its significance.
Many families choose to commission custom medallions for loved ones' major anniversaries — five, ten, twenty-five years — as a lasting keepsake. Premium medallions are also popular as gifts from sponsors to sponsees, symbolizing pride in the work done together.
Related Terms
Sobriety Coin
A sobriety coin is a physical token marking milestones in recovery from addiction, originating in Alcoholics Anonymous.
AA Chip
An AA chip is a token given at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to mark sobriety milestones, with different colors representing different time periods.
Sobriety Anniversary
A sobriety anniversary is the yearly celebration of continuous recovery, marking how many years have passed since a person's sobriety date.