Shellback Challenge Coin
Title: Challenge Coin, Shellback, CTF 70
Accession #: NHHC 2018.030.001
Circa: 2017
Size: 2.75
Medium: Brass
Location: Headquarters Artifact Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command
"Crossing the Line" in the Navy was a term used to mark the crossing of the Equator or one of the significant meridian lines. Historically, these significant crossings for sailors were marked by ceremonies, traditions, and in many cases hazing. While the hazing traditions have been banned by the military overall, the traditions for these significant crossings are still marked by being awarded commemoratives like challenge coins.
This coin is rather large in size for a challenge coin and is rich in color. It commemorates the crossing the line for a "Shellback" from Carrier Task Force (CTF) 70 in 2017. The obverse has a colorful depiction of the Imperial Order of Neptune in blue with shield insignias for Carrier Strike Group Five and Commander of Task Force 70, Battle Force Seventh Fleet. The reverse shows a turtle in red kelp with a black ring around the edge marked "Neptuni Imperium Regis / Commander Task Force 70"
