Challenge coins introduction

Challenge coins are small metal coins that bear the insignia or emblem of an organization or group. They are usually carried by the members of that organization or group to show their identity and pride. Challenge coins have a long and rich history, dating back to the Roman Empire, where soldiers were rewarded with coins for their achievements in battle.

Challenge coins have many purposes and occasions, depending on the context and culture of the organization or group. Some of the common ones are:

  • To recognize and reward outstanding performance, service, or achievement.
  • To commemorate a special event, anniversary, or milestone.
  • To promote camaraderie, morale, and loyalty among the members.
  • To honor the memory of a fallen or deceased member.
  • To challenge or challenge others to show their coin and prove their membership.
  • To exchange as a token of friendship, gratitude, or appreciation.
  • To collect as a hobby or a souvenir.

Challenge coins are not only used by the military, but also by other organizations and groups such as law enforcement, fire departments, government agencies, sports teams, clubs, schools, businesses, and more. They can be customized with different shapes, sizes, colors, designs, and features to suit the needs and preferences of the customers.

Challenge coins are more than just coins. They are symbols of honor, pride, and unity that tell a story and convey a message. They are cherished by those who receive them and respected by those who see them. They are a way of celebrating the past, present, and future of an organization or group.

Types of challenge coins

Military challenge coins

Military challenge coins:

These are the most common and traditional type of coins. They are used by the different branches of the armed forces, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, etc. They are also used by specific units, divisions, squadrons, or commands within each branch. Military challenge coins are usually given by unit commanders or leaders to their subordinates or peers to honor their service, valor, loyalty, or excellence. They can also be used to commemorate special events, missions, or operations. Military challenge coins often feature the symbols, logos, mottos, or colors of the respective branch or unit.

Science challenge coins

Science challenge coins:

These are coins that are used by scientists, researchers, or enthusiasts who share a passion for science and discovery. They can also be used to recognize scientific breakthroughs, innovations, or achievements. Science challenge coins often feature symbols, images, or formulas related to a specific field or discipline of science.

University challenge coins

University challenge coins:

These are coins that are used by colleges and universities to celebrate their academic excellence, traditions, or achievements. They can also be used to honor alumni, faculty, staff, or students who have made significant contributions to the institution or society. University challenge coins often feature the logo, mascot, motto, or colors of the school.

coins

Presidential challenge coins:

These are rare and prestigious type of coins that are issued by the President of the United States to select individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation or the world. Presidential challenge coins usually feature the seal of the President on one side and a personalized message from the President on the other side. They can also include the signature of the President or other details that reflect his personality or preferences. Presidential challenge coins are often presented as gifts or tokens of appreciation to foreign dignitaries, heads of state, military personnel, veterans, or civilians.

Boy scouts challenge coins

Boy Scouts challenge coins:

These are coins that are used by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to promote their values, principles, and activities. They can also be used to reward scouts who have earned badges, ranks, or honors. Boy scouts challenge coins often feature the BSA logo, motto, oath, or law.

These are just some of the many types of challenge coins that exist in the world. Challenge coins are a great way to express your identity, affiliation, or appreciation for something or someone.

Production steps of challenge coins

There are several steps involved in the production of challenge coins, and they can vary depending on the design and specifications of each coin. Here is a general overview of how challenge coins are made:

Making a custom coin mold: The first step is to create a digital blueprint of the coin design using a computer program called CAD (Computer-Aided Design). The CAD file is then uploaded to another program called CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), which controls a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine. The CNC machine uses a cutting tool to carve the inverse of the coin design into two steel blocks, one for the front and one for the back of the coin. These steel blocks are called coin molds or dies. The dies are then tempered in a hot oven and cooled in oil to harden them and make them more durable.

Die striking coins: The next step is to use the coin molds to stamp the design onto brass or steel blanks. A blank is a round piece of metal that has no features or details. The blanks are placed between the two dies and pressed with a hydraulic press that applies 500 to 1,000 tons of force. This process is called die striking, and it transfers the design from the dies to the blanks, creating an impression on both sides of the coin.

Cutting the edges: After die striking, the coins are cut from the metal strip and their edges are shaped according to the design. Depending on their designs, some coins have smooth edges, while others have grooved, scalloped, or diamond-cut edges. The edge cutting is done by another CNC machine that uses a rotating blade to trim and shape the coins.

Plating with metal: The next step is to coat the coins with a layer of metal, such as gold, silver, copper, nickel, or black nickel. This process is called electroplating, and it involves immersing the coins in a solution that contains metal ions and applying an electric current. The current causes the metal ions to adhere to the surface of the coins, creating a shiny and protective finish.

Enamel coloring and baking: For coins with complicated designs, normally they require filling with colorful enamel paint in the lower area of coin’s surface. With these enamel paints, the challenge coins look great. Then the enamel paints are dried by a baking machine at high temperature to solidify and fix the paint.

Laser engraving fine details: The final step is to add any fine details or personalization to the coins, such as names, dates, serial numbers, or logos. This can be done by using a laser engraving machine that uses a focused beam of light to burn or etch the desired text or image onto the coins.

How to order challenge coins

Ordering challenge coins from Jiayue Pins is simple. The easiest way to place an order is by sending us your requirements to our online quote request form or emailing us.

For the complete procedure of ordering challenge coins please follow the steps below:

  • Choose a design: You can either create your own design using a computer program or sketch, or you can use an online coin design tool that allows you to customize the shape, size, color, edge, and features of your coin.
  • Choose a style: You can choose from different styles of challenge coins, such as die-struck, enamel, cloisonne, 3D, or laser engraved. Each style has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the level of detail, durability, and appearance you want for your coin.
  • Choose a finish: You can choose from different finishes/platings for your coin, such as gold, silver, copper, nickel, or black nickel. The finish affects the look and feel of your coin, as well as its resistance to tarnish and wear. You can also choose to have antique or polished effects on your finish.
  • Choose a quantity: You can choose how many coins you want to order, depending on your budget and purpose. Normally our minimum order qty is 100 pcs. The price per coin usually decreases as the quantity increases.
  • Place your order: Once you have finalized your design and specifications, please send to us, then a competitive quotation will be sent to you within 24 hours. With your payment, our factory will send you the artwork/proof for your confirmation, then start production.
  • Receive your order: Normally challenge coins production time is 2-3 weeks, depending on your qty. It takes nearly one week for FedEx to send coins to your hands. Should you need rush production, please let us know when placing your order.