Many people may associate challenge coins with military organizations but they are also awarded by fraternal groups, recovery groups, and sports teams. They can be used to strengthen the bond between members and to show dedication to an organization.
The design process begins with deciding on the shape and size of the coin. Other aspects to consider include thickness and background texture.
Identifying Your Target Audience
Many people have drawers full of knick-knacks given to them as part of corporate outings or at trade shows but have yet to get used. The best way to combat this is by giving out something that your employees or members of your organization will be used and appreciate. One great way to do this is by creating a challenge coin.
Custom challenge coins are a special memento commemorating an important event or achievement. It can be a reminder of a team that worked hard and pulled off a successful project, or it can be a way to honor someone for their service in the military. Challenge coins are also a great way to build teamwork and bring people together, and they can be a powerful marketing tool for your business.
The weight and feel of a challenge coin are also very important, as they can make a huge difference in how it is perceived. Most challenge coins are made of zinc, but they can also be produced in copper or other precious metals for a more premium finish. The thickness of a challenge coin can also impact its weight and feel. Heavier coins will feel more solid and durable, but you need to balance this with your coin’s design.
Creating a Design
When designing a challenge coin, the image is one of the most important aspects. This is because a challenge coin is more than just a decorative item; it symbolizes membership in an elite group and has a powerful meaning.
To start the process, you should sketch more than one design before settling on one. This will allow you to see what the final product will look like and ensure that your message is conveyed best. Then, it would help if you chose an appropriate color scheme for your organization. It is generally recommended to use contrasting colors to make the images stand out and easily readable.
The thickness of a challenge coin can also be an important factor in the final look and feel. Most challenge coins are 3mm thick, but you can also go up to 4mm. Heavier coins feel more solid and can have a unique texture that makes them feel special. We’ve seen everything from brickwork patterns to stippling designs and even dragon scales on these coins.
If you want to take your coin to the next level, you can also decide whether or not you’d like it to have a 3-D design. This can add much depth to your coin and make it pop off the surface.
Choosing a Material
Once you’ve gathered your design ideas and created a general layout, the next step is to choose a material. Choosing the right material will determine the look and feel of your coin. There are several different options to choose from, including brass, copper, and nickel.
Brass is the most popular choice for challenge coins. This metal is made from a combination of copper and zinc and can be altered to produce a wide range of colors and effects. Brass is also available in shiny, antique, and satin finishes. It’s easy to see why this option is so popular.
Bronze is another great option for challenge coins. It can be used to create a classic and elegant coin perfect for commemorating special events. This metal is also available in a shiny, antique, and satin finish, so you can pick the color that best fits your style.
Another option for challenge coins is translucent enamel. This type of enamel allows light to pass through the coin, revealing the intricate details. This is a great choice for challenge coins with 3D elements or textured designs.
Finally, nickel is a great choice for challenge coins. Police departments often choose this material for its traditional and classy appearance. It’s also available in a shiny, antique, and matte finish, so you can find the look that matches your organization.
Getting Started
When you design your challenge coin, you have many customization options. You can get a unique look for your custom coin from different plating choices to different coin edges and sizes. Choosing a unique background texture can also make your coin stand out. Some common examples include stippling patterns and brickwork designs. You can even add dragon scales for a more exotic feel.
Once the design has been finalized, it goes through a striking process. This involves using dies to stamp the image onto a blank coin. The coin is then polished to give it a smooth finish. The final product is a high-quality, durable coin that can be displayed and worn proudly by its owner.
Takeaways
The history of challenge coins is long, and they continue to be cherished by many groups today. They are a symbol of loyalty and unity within an organization, and they can be used to recognize special accomplishments or events.
In some cases, challenge coins are given to military members to commemorate their service or achievements. Their commander or other high-ranking official often presents them with a ceremony. The presentation of these coins is an important part of their meaning, making the recipients feel special when they receive them.