Tips for designing your custom challenge coin

Custom challenge coins have an upscale history and function as a logo of honor. These unique coins are typically created for military units, enforcement agencies, and other organizations to commemorate special events or recognize outstanding achievements. They’re meticulously designed and made, often featuring intricate artwork and personalized details. Custom challenge coins are highly valued by those who receive them and have become highly collectible items in recent years.

The tradition of challenge coins commences back to War I when American soldiers carried them to spot themselves and prove their allegiance. Over time, challenge coins evolved from simple identification markers to meaningful tokens of appreciation and accomplishment. Today, custom challenge coins are employed by various groups to celebrate milestones, promote solidarity, and honor individuals for their exceptional service.

How are custom challenge coins made?

Custom challenge coins are made through a meticulous process that involves several steps. First, the planning is made using specialized software or by hand. This design is transferred onto a mold, usually steel or iron. The mold is carefully crafted to make sure that each one of the small prints of the planning is accurately reproduced.

Once the mold is prepared, molten metal, like brass or zinc alloy, is poured into it. The metal is left to chill and harden, taking over the form of the mold. After the metal has solidified, it’s far away from the mold, and any excess material is trimmed away.

Next, the coin is carefully polished to create a smooth, glossy surface. This is often typically done by combining mechanical polishing and chemical treatments. The polishing process helps reinforce the coin’s general appearance and convey the finer details of the planning.

Finally, the coin is plated with a protective finish, like gold, silver, or nickel. This adds a slight elegance to the coin and helps guard it from tarnishing or scratching. The plating process involves immersing the coin during a bath of the specified metal, which adheres to the surface and forms a durable coating.

Tips for designing your custom challenge coin

When designing your custom challenge coin, remember a couple of tips. 

• First, consider the aim of the coin and, therefore, the message you would like it to convey. Whether it’s for a military force, a company event, or a private achievement, the planning should reflect the importance of the occasion. 
• Second, believe in the dimensions and shape of the coin. While most challenge coins are round, you’ll choose unique shapes like shields or dog tags. 
• Finally, concentrate on the small print. From the selection of metal to the color scheme and, therefore, the inclusion of any text or symbols, every element should be carefully considered to ensure a visually appealing and meaningful design.

Conclusion

Custom challenge coins are metal tokens. They’re a tangible symbol of pride, unity, and achievement. Whether we want to commemorate a special event or recognize outstanding service, these coins hold great significance for those that receive them. With their rich history and meticulous craftsmanship, custom challenge coins are still cherished in various organizations worldwide.