What Are the Chips in AA?
AA chips, also known as sobriety chips, are tokens often associated with programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). These chips symbolize the amount of time an individual has maintained their sobriety. While they aren't obligatory within the AA framework, they hold a prevalent role. Not all AA meetings incorporate the tradition of distributing sobriety chips, but it's a widespread custom within the fellowship. Typically, these chips are awarded at meetings for specific intervals of sobriety.
Typically, these chips are handed out during meetings to mark specific intervals of sobriety. In the majority of AA meetings worldwide, the chips given for periods ranging from 24 hours to 11 months are crafted from aluminum. They are lighter in weight and are distinguished by varying colors representing different lengths of sobriety. Chips awarded for 1 year or more are fashioned from bronze and share the same distinctive bronze hue.
AA chips, including Deluxe Coins and Elite Medallions, are available in a diverse range of designs, crafted from an extensive selection of metals and materials.
What Do the Colors of Sobriety Chips Mean?
24 Hours - Silver
1 Month - Red
2 Months - Gold
3 Months - Green
4 Months - Purple
5 Months - Black
6 Months - Blue
7 Months - Red
8 Months - Gold
9 Months - Purple
10 Months - Green
11 Months - Blue
It’s worth noting that the chip colors might vary depending on the manufacturer.
How Often Do You Get a Chip in AA?
In AA, collecting chips is a tradition to celebrate different stages of staying sober. These chips mark specific time milestones on your sobriety journey. The sequence of chips typically includes the 24-hour "desire" chip, which represents committing to staying sober for the next day. After that, there are chips for 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, 9 months, 1 year, 18 months, and then yearly chips as you continue on your sober path. Each chip commemorates your progress and commitment to a sober life.
What Is the AA Chip or Coin?
An AA chip, also known as an AA coin or AA medallion, is a small, round coin that serves as a token and is often referred to as a sobriety chip. These tokens are handed out to individuals who are part of a 12-step program to mark different periods of staying sober. Each chip signifies a specific interval of time that a person has remained sober, serving as a tangible reminder of their progress and commitment to their recovery journey.
