King's shilling

noun2

1. •
   (figurative) The benefits and rewards of military service.
2. •
   (UK, historical) A shilling accepted by new recruits when agreeing to or tricked into enlisting into the British army or navy during the 18th and 19th centuries.

   • I have taken the King's shilling, but perhaps if you came for me they would let me go back with you. I was a fool when I did it. I don't want to be in the army. — 1913