Introduction
Challenge coins are tokens signifying membership in a group or an individual, often but not always in the shape of a coin. The military has a long history of using challenge coins as a symbol of membership, achievements and recognizing accomplishment.
Identifying symbols have been used for an exceptionally long time. Ancient Roman combat heroes were honored with a commemorative coin with the name of their legion.
It is important to pay close attention to the challenge coins' measurements before making a purchase. The visibility of text and insignia will be compromised if the coin is too small.
When selecting a challenge coin, there are two dimensions to consider: diameter and thickness. We're going to investigate these facets of choosing coins. Consequently, if you are thinking of purchasing a challenge coin but are unsure what size is best, this article will help you!
What are the Sizes the Challenge Coins are Available in?
Learning about your sizing alternatives before making a final choice is essential. Different manufacturers will provide different-sized alternatives. Some mints may only produce coins 1", 1.5", or 2" in diameter.
While many mints produce coins in a wide variety of sizes, from half an inch to two and a half inches, certain mints may restrict the maximum coin diameter, and others may not. Once you begin dealing with a manufacturer, it is important to learn the scope of their capabilities.
Don't settle on a manufacturer until you've looked at the range of sizes they provide. The most popular size of a challenge coin is between 1.5 and 2.5 inches in diameter. It's ideal in terms of detail, portability, and weight. Depending on your demands, you may choose between using smaller or bigger coins.
Finally, the most important thing on such a coin is its insignia and text. The bigger the coin, the better it displays the design. Remember that challenge coins were originally intended to serve as a form of identification.
Therefore, the best solution is in the middle: a 1.75 or 2-inch coin, which is portable while still making an aesthetic statement.
What to Consider When Deciding on Challenge Coin Size
Your Budget
The size you choose should also take your budget into account. As the size of the coin grows, so does its price. You can save money if you purchase more coins at once, but that may not always be possible.
The price of a coin may be affected by factors such as the complexity of the design, the use of color, and whether the design is to be included on both sides. The trick to minting a coin without breaking the bank is to strike a good balance between these factors.
As the diameter of the coin grows, so does the cost.
Coin Design
A bigger size is preferable if you would like your coin to have a lot of details. If the coin is bigger, it will be easier to see and understand the design elements.
It's okay to use a smaller coin if your design is straightforward. The optimal size for your coin depends on how much information you choose to display.
Convenience
The diameter of challenge coins ranges from very small to very large but is typically about 2 inches. Sizes beyond this range are possible, however.
This is the most popular size because it strikes a good balance between the amount of room for design, weight, portability, and aesthetic effect. Choose the one that fits you the most.
Coin's Purpose
Finally, think about why you're buying a coin. Do you want it to be small enough to fit in your pocket? Can you see it being presented on a shelf or with other insignia?
When framed, a huge coin may be admired in any room of the house or at the workplace. Smaller coins are more convenient to carry around in a handbag or wallet.
A quarter serves as an excellent visual aid. The diameter of a quarter is small — about one inch. To visualize the difference in size between a one-, two-, and three-inch coin, lay several quarters side by side.
What Challenge Coin Size is the Most Popular?
The most popular coin size is 1.75 to 2 inches in diameter. The standard size range for coins is from 1.5" to 3". If they are in a certain shape, they can be much bigger.
It's up to you to decide, but most people find that a 2-inch coin is just right for their artwork. It's strong enough to feel durable without being cumbersome to carry about in your pocket, and it's roomy enough to accommodate a detailed design.
Remember that a round form offers the most surface area for your unique design (and the best value) among all shapes and sizes.
[BONUS] Why is it Important to Know Challenge Coin Sizes?
A challenge coin can fulfill several different roles. Up until quite recently, they were solely used by the armed forces. They are now being used for many purposes by a range of government agencies, private businesses, and non-profit groups, including fire and police departments.
They might be given out to honor bravery, to celebrate a momentous milestone like retirement, or even to raise money for a charitable organization.
When people find out how common they truly are, it surprises many of them. A sizeable community of coin enthusiasts engages in trading and collecting challenge coins. Those that are more rare might sell for $40–$50.
Challenge Coins Tell a Story
A challenge coin is one of a kind, has a low mintage, and conveys information about the organization, the recipient, and the designer.
They may be presented as an informal recognition for work well done, as a token of appreciation for attending a significant event (such as a military gala or an anniversary), or as a means of advertising a company's services or products to potential new clients.
Because most people are throwing away paper cards, some people are finally starting to use metallic coins in whatever form they want to identify themselves and offer to large or potentially large clients.
In certain circumstances, disaster relief funding is sought via the sale of challenge coins ordered for that purpose. For instance, we're now minting coins for a client who intends to donate all the money they get from selling them to those who suffered a loss in the recent Hurricane Harvey.
Most individuals have no concept of challenge coins and are thus startled to learn their significance when we explain what they are.
Coin collectors have trade networks, which is also true for the government and the military. Many individuals make their own unique coins and offer these to their peers.
Get Your Own Challenge Coin!
Challenge coins have been around since at least World War I, over a century ago. Legend has it that a lieutenant once presented bronze coins to every squad member. The lieutenant's life was spared because the allies had this medallion to prove he was an American soldier.
Challenge coins have long been used as tokens of appreciation for deserving people and groups. Not just the military uses these currencies; many other groups do as well.
Considering all these options while deciding on a challenge coin size may be quite stressful. If you know your goals, budget, and layout in advance, you can go through the process much more quickly. Heftyberry can help you choose an ideal challenge coin for your requirements.
