In this book, it states, "Sister Ignatia gave each of her newly released patients a Sacred Heart Medallion, which she asked them to return before they took the first drink.
[3] The Portland group (Maine) began a tradition of using colored poker chips to mark time of sobriety.
As private companies saw these coins being used, they began to manufacture “AA” chips (even though they were not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous) and sell them to different sections.
[2] Wendells Inc. from Ramsey, Minnesota, began manufacturing the raised center bronze AA Medallion in 1973.
Typical coin milestone colors: "The chip system is optional and not a part of all A.A. groups nationally or worldwide.
Common premium sobriety chips are gold- and silver-plated, colored and sometimes coated in a clear epoxy dome.