Consider The Details When Creating Custom Challenge Coins

Challenge coins have a special place in military history, and are highly valued by those who have earned them during their service. In recent years, challenge coins have expanded into the civilian world, becoming increasingly popular for EMS services, police and firefighters, schools, corporations, nonprofit groups and other organizations. 

Creating custom challenge coins is easy and fun. Regardless of what you want your custom coins for, there are just a few simple things to consider before placing your order.

What is the Coin For?

First, consider what you want your custom coins to do. Are you looking for a coin to honor someone special? Do you want to create a coin to foster team building? Or, are you looking for a custom coin to boost an upcoming marketing campaign?

Each of these situations calls for a different style of challenge coins. For example, many military challenge coins are often small and lightweight, created to be carried in a pocket or on a keychain. 

On the other hand, a coin designed for marketing purposes should be a bit bigger, the better to show a recognizable logo or brand. In either case, you can incorporate a unique shape and great details. Determining the purpose of your coins will enable you to better create a design that’s best for your needs.

Consider Your Budget

Next, think about is your budget. Knowing the budget for your challenge coins will help you choose which materials and extras you want to include. Generally speaking, the two biggest factors affecting the price of your coins will be coin size and how many you order.

All other things being equal, larger coins will cost more than small ones. The most popular size for challenge coins is 1.75 to 2 inches. This is a good value size that allows for a great deal of detail for your design at a reasonable price.

When it comes to order quantity, you might be surprised to learn ordering more coins can sometimes lower the price you pay. That’s because coin providers typically offer price breaks at specific quantities, for example, at 100 or 300 coins.

Keep in mind that the more coins you order, the lower the cost per coin will be. That’s where the price breaks come into play. Let’s say for example, that you need 75 coins. If your provider offers a per-coin price break at 100 coins, you might end up paying less for 100 coins than you would for 75.

Once you’ve established the number of coins you need, and what will give you the best price for the basic coins, you’re ready to consider custom coin options. We’ll talk more about that a little bit later.

Create the Artwork

Now that you’ve determined your coin’s purpose and the budget, it’s time for the fun part – creating your design.

You probably have some idea of what you want your design to look like. Whether it’s a military insignia, a company logo, a school mascot or other design, go for it. Include any design element that fits your purpose.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure what you want, though. Your coin provider will have talented graphic artists on staff who will be able to guide you in crafting your coins. Whether you have a doodle on a napkin or a fully finished design, they’ll work with you to ensure your coins look exactly the way you want.

Choosing Coin Finishes

Now let's consider the finishes you can choose from for your coins. Challenge coins are typically made from a mixed metal base, which is then plated with the finish of your choice. Plating options include silver, gold, brass, copper, and more. Most are available in your choice of either a polished or antiqued style. The polished finish offers a contemporary look, while the antiqued finish creates a more classic style.

While choosing a finish might seem complicated, your coin provider can make the choice easy. No matter which finish you choose, a good provider will work with you to create outstanding coins in any style you want.

Consider Adding Color

If you have a specific logo or insignia, it’s easy to add color to reproduce it accurately. Most providers allow up to five colors for your design at no extra cost and a slight charge for more than that. You can recreate your company brand, school mascot or any other image you want in full color.

Add Options for Extra Appeal

Last but not least, let's talk options. You can choose from a wide range of extras and upgrades that can make your coin even more special.

For example, you can add custom-cut edges to give your coins even more eye-catching appeal. Another option, custom cutouts add dramatic detail, with the contrast between your image and open space highlighting your design even more. Sequential numbering turns your coins into a true limited edition.

If you want to be sure the recipients will keep your custom coins close at hand, you can turn them into bottle openers or keychains.

No matter what type of coin design you have in mind, custom upgrades can add a nice touch and appeal for the recipients.

We’ll Work With You 

At ChallengeCoins4Less.com, we know what it takes to create stunning custom coins of all sorts. We’ve got 20 years’ experience and a team of graphic artists and designers who will work with you to create the perfect challenge coin for your particular needs. Designing and ordering custom coins has never been easier, faster or more fun.

Ready to find out more? Give us a call, toll free at (855) 272-8451, or email us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have. If you already have an idea for your design, fill out our no-obligation free quote form and we’ll send you a free digital proof of your design. We’re ready to help you create the perfect custom challenge coins for your needs. Find out just how easy designing and ordering great custom coins can be!