This listing is for a U.S. Marine Corps Fourth Recruit Training Battalion (4th RTBn) Parris Island, S.C. challenge coin in dog-tag shape, with the USMC Eagle, Globe and Anchor and "USMC SEMPER FI" on the obverse and the unit-specific "FOURTH RECRUIT TRAINING BATTALION — PARRIS ISLAND, S.C." on the reverse. Suitable for collectors of USMC challenge coins, recruit-training-depot memorabilia, and Parris Island ephemera.
The Fourth Recruit Training Battalion at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, is the unit responsible for training every female Marine Corps recruit in the United States. Established in 1949, 4th RTBn is the only female-recruit training battalion in the Marine Corps and graduates approximately 17% of all USMC recruits annually. Challenge coins commemorating recruit training depots are among the most personally meaningful USMC coin categories, often given to recruits at graduation or to visitors / family / staff in recognition of their connection to the battalion.
Yes. USMC challenge coins are one of the most accessible niches in modern military collecting, and Parris Island recruit-training-depot coins specifically have strong personal-connection appeal — every Marine east of the Mississippi (and every female Marine) trained at Parris Island. The dog-tag-shape format gives this coin a distinctive silhouette that stands out from standard round challenge coins.
What era and branch is this from?
United States Marine Corps, modern issue (4th RTBn challenge coin from MCRD Parris Island).
How rare is this piece?
Recruit-training-battalion challenge coins are minted in moderate numbers (typically distributed to recruits, visitors, and unit staff). Parris Island specifically has high collector demand because of its unique status as the only female Marine Corps recruit training site.
Is this a good item to start a collection with?
Yes — clearly named, unit-issued, and from a uniquely significant USMC training depot.
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