Geocoins

Geocoins are a type of trackable item used in the geocaching hobby. They are metal coins minted with unique tracking numbers that allow their movements to be logged on geocaching.com. Geocoins originated in the early 2000s as a durable, collectible form of trackable item alongside travel bugs. They are produced by artists, clubs, brands, and event organizers and often feature distinctive designs representing places, themes, or sponsors.

There are two broad categories: trackable geocoins and non-trackable geocoins. Trackable geocoins carry a unique identifier that, when activated on the geocaching website, enables owners to record visits as the coin is moved from cache to cache by geocachers. Many geocoins include a planned mission or goal, such as traveling to a particular country or reaching a specific coordinate. Non-trackable geocoins exist primarily as souvenirs or collector items and do not have an activation code.

Acquisition typically occurs through coin designers, online stores, geocaching events, and swag at meetups. Use involves entering the coin's tracking number on the geocaching site to begin tracking, and logging each encounter or movement when the coin is picked up, dropped, or found in a cache. The community aspect of geocoins includes trading, gifting, and participating in themed releases, contributing to the broader geocaching culture and international participation.