The Pickle Jar

While not officially part of Alcoholics Anonymous, sobriety chips are a big dill in recovery communities around the world. These medallions—usually the size of a poker chip—mark major milestones in sobriety and remind folks to stay cool as a cucumber on their journey.

The chip system likely got brined in Indianapolis around 1942, with more early inspiration from Sister Ignatia in Akron, OH, who gave Sacred Heart medallions to patients leaving treatment—asking them to return them if they ever chose to relish a drink again.

Today, chips and tokens of all kinds—bronze, plastic, wooden, and more—help people preserve their progress and celebrate the sweet success of sobriety. Whether you're on day one or year ten, each medallion is a reminder that you’ve dill-ivered on your commitment.

Sure, the chips aren’t magic—but their meaning packs a zesty punch. As they say: “If the urge to drink hits, put the chip in your mouth—once it dissolves, it’s safe to take a drink.” (Spoiler: it won’t. Stay pickled in recovery instead!)