5 Tips for Creating a Custom Challenge Coin for a Specific Group

Challenge coins have a special history that includes being used by the military to honor people’s service. Now, you can use a challenge coin to build a stronger bond in any type of group. The custom challenge coin will serve as a memento of your group every time someone sees the challenge coin. Whether you’re working with a group of athletes or want to create a custom challenge coin for your fraternity, you can use this guide to make your design personalized to fit everyone’s special bond.

1- Define the Intended Purpose

Your decision to create a custom challenge coin likely stems from a source. You might be hoping to build a closer bond within a small group of friends. Or, you may want to give challenge coins to everyone at your family reunion. Even a sales team could use challenge coins to commemorate milestones such as hitting a target. Defining your purpose helps you start picking out metals, shapes, and images that make the coin relate to the group.

2- Brainstorm Ideas for What Makes the Group Unique

Now, you’ll want to begin the process of adding even more customization. For instance, a group of athletes might have special colors that you want to incorporate into the design. Or, you may want to choose a coin with gold plating to highlight a special honor that your group is celebrating. Thinking about the things that each member of the group brings to the table can also help you personalize the coins.

3- Use a Motto or Image the Guide the Design

Inscribing your group’s motto on the coin gives it more meaning. You could also choose an image to serve as the focal point. Sports mascots, company logos, and classic symbols such as stars are all great options for getting started. You can also choose to use a number that holds meaning to the group. Putting a troop number or the date of a memorable event is a way to enhance the personalization.

4- Create Several Design Concepts

If coming up with one design was challenging, then don’t worry. It’s often easier to develop the next design by altering a few details. For example, you might explore how a coin looks with silver plating instead of gold. Or, you might want to play with add-on features such as glitter paint or glow-in-the-dark options.

5- Request Feedback for the Final Decision

Creating two to three different designs allows the group to choose a coin without feeling overwhelmed. You can hold a group meeting to discuss which one everyone likes best, and you may even take a vote to finalize the decision. If the coins are a surprise, then you can work with a challenge coin designer to create a custom piece that meets your team’s approval.

Once you design the perfect challenge coin, you’ll be ready to plan a presentation. You might choose to hold a special ceremony that makes the presentation extra special. Or, you might slip one into each person’s hand as you greet each other with a handshake. Either way, creating a coin that everyone associates with the group is a great way to start a new tradition.