The purpose of a challenge coin started as a tradition and have helped build camaraderie among various career fields, such as military and law enforcement. Challenge coins are essentially a token or keepsake which signified the person as a member of a certain group or organization. These are also a great way for businesses to advertise and give a special token of appreciation to the unexpected receiver. Challenge coins represent anything from a business, specific or specialized unit, special events, top official leaders, or even a YouTuber or gamer. Some of these challenge coins are very symbolic and meaningful were others are a token of appreciation.
For us, designing a custom challenge coin is very rewarding and a sense of fulfillment when you can take someone’s ideas and make them into a reality. However, there is a lot of work involved and can seem overwhelming at times and we’re here to help you. From this guide you will learn just what it takes to make an eye catching sought after custom challenge coin design.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own custom challenge coin, featuring insights into the superior qualities of Beyond The Line, the go-to choice for custom challenge coins.
Step 1: Develop Your Design Idea
Just as the title suggest; the project starts from you idea or ideas. When you begin your conceptual idea the first step is to think about the purpose of the coin and the message you want to convey. Consider elements like:
- Emblems and logos: Use symbols that represent your organization or event.
- Text: Include mottos, dates, or names that hold significance.
- Imagery: Incorporate meaningful graphics or icons.
- Shape: The shape of the coin can play into how your design is laid out.
- Size: The size can sometimes depend on the shape of the coin.
All of these can are just the beginning to your perfect challenge coin but there is way more to get into though. You do not have to put your ideas into words you can put them on paper as well. Simply sketch out your ideas and write comments about what it is or what is being portrayed in the image. You do not have to be an artist to create a custom challenge coin cause you have us. We can take your stickman drawings and make them into reality just as long as we get the general concept for your vision.
Step 2: Decide on Coin Options
While the design aspect of your idea is crucial to get things started, it is really the options of your design where your vision starts to come to become a reality. The design options in how your challenge coin range from the overall size and shape, metal plating options, edge cuts, and other elements like glitter and glow in the dark. All of these options and combinations can change the look and feel of your coin with just one change.
Deciding on the specific options for your coin includes:
- Thickness: Standard is typically 3mm thickness.
- Plating: Various options include gold, silver, antique finishes, or dual plating.
- Edge design: Select from various edge styles such as scalloped, chiseled, petal, diamond, spiral, or rope just to name a few.
Step 3: Get the Right Feel and Weight
The feel and weight of a challenge coin are critical for its perceived value and quality. Beyond The Line ensures that each coin has a substantial weight, contributing to its premium feel. Beyond The Line has made it a standard for all coins to be 3.5mm thickness unless otherwise requested. They use high-quality materials and precise manufacturing processes to create coins that are both durable and impressive.
Step 4: Request Artwork and Design Revisions
With your design and variant options in mind, it’s time to bring your vision to life. Beyond The Line offers a seamless process for requesting artwork and design revisions:
- Initial Design: Submit your ideas and any reference materials.
- Feedback: Review the initial artwork and provide feedback.
- Revisions: Make necessary changes until the design is perfect.
Beyond The Line’s experienced designers are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction, working closely with you through each step of the way.
Step 5: Production Process
Once you’ve approved the final design, the production process begins:
- Die Casting: A custom die is created to stamp your design onto the chosen metal.
- Plating and Polishing: The coins are plated with your selected finish and polished to a high shine.
- Coloring and Enameling: If your design includes color, enamel is carefully applied to each section with care.
- Flare & Additives: Certain features like glow-in-the-dark, glitter, lasering are added.
- Quality Control: Each coin undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure it meets the highest standards for challenge coins.
Why Choose Beyond The Line?
Beyond The Line stands out as the premier choice for custom challenge coins for several reasons:
- Exceptional Quality: They use the finest materials and state-of-the-art techniques to produce coins of unparalleled quality.
- Expert Craftsmanship: Their team of skilled artisans and designers bring your vision to life with precision and creativity.
- Customer Satisfaction: They are committed to providing an outstanding customer experience, from initial consultation to final delivery.
- Timely Delivery: Beyond The Line ensures that your coins are produced and delivered on time, every time.
Creating custom challenge coins is a rewarding process that results in a lasting symbol of achievement and pride. By following these steps and partnering with Beyond The Line, you can be confident that your custom coins will be crafted to perfection, honoring the tradition and significance they represent.
Ready to start your custom challenge coin journey? Contact Beyond The Line today and turn your vision into reality.