Did you know the tradition of giving out challenge coins originated in the Ancient Roman military? Handing out challenge coins started with the soldiers of Rome, who kept a token to remember their comrades during difficult times.

Challenge coin history has undergone many changes and has held many meanings. They are primarily used as a sign of recognition within a private community.

But how do you design a custom challenge coin, and how do you make sure it’s a success?

Read on to learn about getting started designing your custom challenge coins.

Gathering Initial Design Elements

Gathering the initial design elements for a custom challenge coin can be essential to designing a unique piece of memorabilia. Start by deciding what size coin you would like– one and a half to three inches is typically the standard.

After determining the size, consider any specific shape you’d like – coins can be round, square, or even a custom shape. Depending on the design and engraving process you choose will dictate the placement of your design elements. Additionally, consider a one-color design or four-color design to determine the look of the finished product.

Considerations for Coining Materials

Decide between counterfeiting materials such as zinc alloys, brass alloys, and pewter or actual coining material such as bronze, gold, silver, and other precious metals. Coins created with counterfeiting materials are usually limited to 1.5 inches in diameter or less. The larger the coin, however, the more expensive it may be.

Bronze and other precious metal coins can be produced at larger diameters but cost significantly more. In addition, some metal alloys may need to work better with a particular design or technique.

Select Edge Finishes

Edge finishes can range from smooth to stepped, helping to create a 3-dimensional look and feel. Depending on the type of edge desired, materials used may vary from clay, zinc, bronze, aluminum, and even edge-painted coins.

Smooth edges are generally used for softer metals like clay or zinc, as heavier metals are difficult to machine for this treatment. Stepped edges may be done on whatever metal is chosen and can make the coin look and feel larger than it is.

Choose Your Artwork and Logos

When designing your custom military challenge coins, the artwork, and logos you choose should be meaningful to you or your organization. They should be visually appealing and contain meaningful symbols that represent your organization. Begin by researching what logos, characters, and images fit your cause.

Once you have identified a few suitable ones, sketch some logo designs or find online graphic design help. Next, convert it into an editable digital format and make further refinements.

Polishing Designs for Perfection

Create a digital vector illustration of your idea and use it to finalize the artwork. Adjust the painting so that the colors, fonts, and other elements appear precisely as desired. Don’t forget the details.

Finally, double-check that the artwork will reproduce well on the coins. Ask your coin manufacturer for a sample coin to get an idea of how the final product will look. To start, design your own coin here for a personalized approach.

Learn the Best Steps in Making Your Custom Challenge Coins

Designing various types of challenge coins is a creative opportunity that allows you to honor an event, a team, or an individual with personal significance. With these tips and imagination, anyone can create custom challenge coins that reflect their organization or group. So, design your custom challenge coin today to make a lasting statement!

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