Most of us have seen Tablers pulling out coins at a bar, with some celebrating while others reluctantly buy a round of drinks. Read on to learn how to play the game and ensure you never lose again!
THE HISTORY OF THE COIN GAME
As with many Round Table traditions, the exact origin of the Coin Game is unclear. However, it is widely believed to have originated from various armed services across the world, where similar traditions date back many years.
The first known mention of challenge or fellowship coins in Round Table appears in an old article from the 1980s, where Danish Tablers were seen carrying customized coins. Over time, the game has evolved, but only one officially published set of rules exists, created by Round Table 128 Bryanston in Southern Africa. These rules, now widely accepted, are as follows:
RULES OF THE COIN GAME
It is in every Tabler’s best interest to carry their coin at all times. The challenge is the most common way to ensure that members follow this tradition.
-
- A challenge can be made at any time. It begins when the Challenger takes out their coin and slaps or places it on the table or bar. If the environment is noisy, tapping the coin repeatedly may also initiate the challenge.
- Challenges can happen during any social gathering of Round Table members; it does not have to be an official event.
- Accidentally dropping a coin is considered a deliberate challenge to all present.
- Every challenged Tabler must immediately produce their coin. Anyone failing to do so must buy a round of drinks for the Challenger and all others who have their coins.
- If multiple members fail to produce their coin, each one must buy a round for the Challenger and all who have their coins.
- However, if all challenged members successfully present their coins, the Challenger must buy a round of drinks for the group.
- Most Tablers carry their coin in wallets or pockets, but the rules allow a challenged person “a step and a reach” to retrieve it.
- Leaving the room to fetch a coin is not permitted and results in an automatic forfeit.
Additional rule from Round Table Denmark: If you do not have a coin, you are limited to buying only one round of drinks per evening.
COIN DESIGN
40mm diameter. Some Associations have design guidelines on the design of the coin, such as the Round Table standards for the design of their coin.
Sources:
[1] GRAHAM CORNELISSEN RT Jukskei 217, Southern Africa; RTI Legacy Magazine — 4 ‑April / May — 2022, Published on Jun 2, 2022