How do you reproduce a portrait in relief on a 3D challenge coin?

We use gradual relief to define the face, paying particular attention to the nose, eyes, and hair. Send a high-quality reference. Complex portraits benefit from reviewing a 3D proof before production.

Can the relief on a 3D challenge coin extend to the edge?

Relief can approach the edge if there is enough room for the rim, mold release, and handling. High points near the edge can affect capsule fit, so we check the overall diameter and thickness together.

Why is antique silver common on 3D challenge coins?

Antique silver darkens recesses and makes relief easier to see. Bright silver reflects more light. A physical sample shows how the contrast will look on your design.

Can a 3D challenge coin also have flat, clear lettering?

Yes. A sculpted portrait can sit alongside simpler 2D lettering around the rim. We check letter height, spacing, and relief so the text remains distinct from the background.

What are your standard challenge coin sizes and production times?

Challenge coins typically measure 1.5–4 inches and take 12–18 business days to produce, excluding international shipping. Spinner, bottle opener, and complex 3D designs need timing confirmed after sampling and scheduling.

How does 3 mm versus 4 mm thickness affect a challenge coin?

A thicker coin generally uses more metal and weighs more. Thickness also affects the room available for relief, packaging fit, and shipping costs.

Custom 3D Challenge Coins

Name: Custom 3D Challenge Coins
Brand: Golden One

Selection overview

Key design features

Sculpted 3D relief
Double-sided design planning
Custom edge and presentation choices

Product configuration

Specifications and available options

Materials	Iron, brass, or zinc alloy, depending on the relief and shape
Edge options	Choose flat, 2D or 3D rope, diamond-cut, gear, stepped, rotary-cut, or wave edges. Laser lettering on the edge is also illustrated.
Packaging	Standard packaging is an individual OPP bag. Other illustrated choices include an acrylic coin case, capsule, leather pouch, PVC sleeve, velvet pouch, and velvet coin case.
Artwork input	Vector artwork is preferred; include intended dimensions, quantity, destination and timing.
Final specification	Confirmed through artwork review and quotation before production.
Available sizes	1.5–4 in. Common sizes: 1.75 and 2 in.
Minimum order	50 pieces
Typical production	14–18 business days, excluding shipping
Shipping	Express, air, sea, road, or rail freight
Relief depth	Sculpted relief up to 4 mm, subject to artwork and construction review.

2D and 3D challenge coins

Feature	2D coin	3D coin
Relief	Two levels with raised and recessed areas	Sculpted relief with multiple levels
Detail	Text, symbols, logos, and line art	Portraits, textures, and rounded forms
Tooling	Simpler flat tooling	Sculpted tooling for greater depth
Typical production	12–18 business days	14–18 business days
Best suited to	Clean linework and flat graphics	Artwork where depth is part of the design

Sculpted depth for distinctive artwork

3D challenge coins use multiple relief levels to shape portraits, animals, vehicles, buildings and detailed emblems. Gradual changes in depth create highlights, shadows and texture, giving commemorative editions and recognition pieces a sculptural character.

Keep one clear focal point on each face. The principal subject can carry the strongest relief while lettering, dates and supporting symbols remain readable. A mixed design can combine sculpted subjects with crisp 2D text or enamel areas.

From depth map to metal

The artwork is developed into a digital relief model that defines the height and shape of each feature. Custom tooling transfers this relief into metal, followed by the selected plating, color and inspection. The sculpting and tooling requirements are included in the quotation.

Coordinate relief, finish and edge

Antique finishes emphasize recessed detail, while brighter metal tones create a different play of light. Review the plating, color, edge treatment and presentation together. This format suits unit emblems, service recognition, public safety awards, company milestones and collector pieces where the subject benefits from realistic depth.

Plan your order

The minimum order is 50 pieces. Typical production takes 14-18 business days, excluding shipping, with the final schedule confirmed for the design. Send a logo, photograph or sketch for both faces, dimensions, quantity and destination. Mark the elements that should receive the strongest relief and note the target delivery date.

Design considerations

Select the areas that need modeled depth, such as a face, an eagle’s feathers or a building façade. Keep lettering and the border readable around the sculpted center.

Your custom design

From your idea to a production-ready design

A clear path for turning a logo, reference, or simple brief into a custom metal gift with confirmed specifications.

Share the starting point

Send a logo, sketch, reference image, or written brief together with the intended use, approximate quantity, destination, and target date.
Shape the right specification

We review form, dimensions, material, finish, attachments, packaging, and any product-specific choices.
Approve before production

Artwork and final specifications are confirmed through review and quotation before production begins.