How to Create a Custom Medallion:
A Guide for Your Next Special Event or Achievement
Custom medallions are a unique way to commemorate a special event, sporting events or achievement. Whether you are looking for a unique graduation gift, commemorating an important milestone, or want to recognize someone's efforts, our team can help create the perfect medallion for you.
We understand that every customer has different needs, which is why we offer a wide range of customization options.
In today's guide, we will walk you through the process of creating your very own custom-made medallion.
Let's get started!
Medallions & Medals: Is there a difference?
The terms medal and medallion are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a difference between the two. A medal is a small, metal disk that is issued to commemorate an event or achievement. It can be worn on a chain around the neck, or attached to clothing.
A medallion, on the other hand, is a larger disk that is often made of wood or metal. Medallions are not typically worn but are instead hung on walls or displayed in cases.
Both medals and medallions can be beautifully detailed and make for wonderful keepsakes. So, the next time you're thinking of purchasing a commemorative item, be sure to choose the right one for your needs.
What Is a Custom-made Medallion?
Personalized medallions are medals that are designed specifically for an event, organization, or individual. Unlike generic medals that can be purchased from a store, custom medals are made to order and can include custom artwork, text, and logos.
The custom medal design is a process that begins with an idea or concept and then is brought to life by a skilled team of designers and craftsmen. The result is a one-of-a-kind medal that captures the essence of the event, organization or individual it was created for.
Custom medallions are not only a beautiful way to commemorate an achievement, but they are also a tangible symbol of excellence that can be cherished for years to come.
The Early History of Medallions
Medallions have been around for centuries, with the earliest known examples dating back to ancient Rome. Originally, medallions were used as currency, and they were made from a variety of materials including bronze, gold, and silver.
Over time, medallions became more decorative, and they were often used to commemorate special occasions or people. In the Middle Ages, medallions were often used as "seals" - personal stamps that could be used to sign documents or identify ownership.
During the Renaissance, medallions became more popular as works of art, and they were often used to commemorate military victories or other important events. By the 18th century, medallions were commonly used as gifts or awards to recognize achievement.
It wasn't until the 20th century that custom-made medallions became widely available. The invention of modern manufacturing techniques allowed for the mass production of medals, making them more affordable and accessible to the general public.
Modern Medals
Organizations around the world created custom medals that are used to reward athletes, soldiers, and other individuals for their achievements. There are many different types of medals, but they all share a common purpose: to commemorate an accomplishment.
While medals have been around for centuries, the modern medal is a relatively recent invention. The first modern medal was awarded at the 1896 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece. Since then, medals have become an integral part of many sporting events, including the Olympics, the World Cup, and the Super Bowl.
A Custom medal is also often used to honor military personnel for their bravery and service. In addition to their traditional uses, custom medals shifted to be given as gifts or used as collectibles.
Whether you're an athlete looking for a way to commemorate your victory or a military service member who wants to be recognized for your bravery, custom medals are a great way to show your achievements.
If you're looking into something similar to medals, you can also check out our custom military dog tags. They are placed around your neck like a medal too but they serve a different function.
Get Started with Custom Medallions
Strike Your Coin has been creating custom promotional items for almost a decade. We have shipped thousands of custom medals of various sizes and shapes to our customers all over the world.
We've also worked on making custom police coins as well as Canadian challenge coins.
Please contact us today to get your quote. We'd love to help you create a unique and memorable medal!
What Should I Consider When Getting a Custom Medallion?
Awards and medals are an excellent way to commemorate a special event or achievement. Whether you're looking for a custom design or something off the shelf, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for custom medallions.
First, consider the purpose of the award.
When it comes to custom medallions, there are many things to consider. First and foremost, you need to think about the purpose of the award.
Are you looking for something to commemorate a special achievement? Or are you looking for a more general way to show your appreciation? Once you have a clear idea of the purpose of the award, you can start to narrow down your options.
Second, think about the budget.
Medals can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, so it's important to set a realistic budget before beginning your search.
Die cast medals are the best option for you. They offer a high-quality look at a fraction of the price of other options. Die-struck medals are made from a metal die that is struck with a heavy hammer, imparting a deep relief image on the metal.
This process creates a very crisp and clear image that can be plated in any metal.
Third, take into account the turnaround time.
Some companies can produce custom medals in as little as two weeks, while others may require four to six weeks for production.
Be sure to check with your potential manufacturer about their timeline and be sure it meets your needs.
You don't want to work with a company that can't produce your medals on time! And don't forget about the cost. Custom medals can range in price depending on the design, size, and quantity.
Fourth, Decide Whether You need engraving or other customization.
Many medals come with blank surfaces that can be customized with text or images.
If you choose to engrave your medal, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, make sure the text is short - you don't want your message to be lost in an intricate design.
Second, consider the font carefully.
The wrong font can make even the simplest message look cluttered or difficult to read.
Third, remember that less is more - a few well-chosen words will be much more impactful than a long list of names or dates.
If you're not sure where to start, our team can help you create the perfect custom medal for your next event or achievement. Contact us today
Finally, think about where you'll be presenting the award.
Indoor ceremonies generally require less durable medals than outdoor events.
If you'll be shipping the medals, you might want to consider a lighter-weight medal to keep shipping costs down.
Custom Medals are a great way to commemorate any event or achievement. By following these simple tips, you'll be on your way to creating the perfect custom medal for your next big event!
How to Create Your Custom Medal?
Many companies specialize in creating custom medals, and the process is usually quite simple. Here are the 4 simple steps:
Step 1. Designing
First, you'll need to decide on the design of the medal. This can be anything from a basic circle to a more elaborate custom design.
There are many different factors to consider when designing your medal, such as: material, size, color, and shape. The most important thing is to make sure that the design reflects the purpose of the medal.
Step 2. Choose Your Materials
Second, decide what material you would like your medallion to be made from. We offer a variety of materials including zinc alloy, brass, iron and more.
Step 3. Create Custom Die
Once you have the design finalized, the company will create a custom die that matches the design. Once the die is created, the company will then use it to stamp out the die cast from metal sheets.
Step 4. Plating
Finally, the medals will be plated with gold, silver, or bronze and then polished to a high shine. The entire process usually takes around 2-3 weeks from start to finish, and the finished product is a beautiful custom medal that anyone would be proud to receive.
We have a more detailed article about the whole process of how custom challenge coins are made.
Custom Medal Customization Options
All our medals are made to last a lifetime because they're designed to withstand the test of time. One side may include your unit logo or slogan, while the other can contain a short thank you message that is easily customizable. Each completed medallion might have a laser engraving of an employee's name or a sequencing number for an added personal touch.
To give it a more premium feel and look, each challenge coin can be placed into a velvet presentation box. Such medallions will be kept for ages.
We make it easy to create Custom Medals
And here is what our customers say:
I had very short notice to design and mint some coins during the holiday season. When I gave them my desired delivery date, they clearly explained the latest that we could submit the design. They also helped me flesh out some ideas before finally deciding on a final one. They were very responsive even throughout the holidays, and were able to help design, mint, and deliver the coins just in time for Christmas. Thanks for all the help!
Daniel de Sao Jose - Google Cloud Team
Strike Your Coin was a fantastic help to the Terry Fox Secondary after-grad committee in creating a special momento for the Grad Class of 2020 during the disappointing cancellation of all of the usual grad celebrations due to Covid 19. Artur designed a fantastic coin using the input we had given him and went above and beyond to ensure they were manufactured and delivered in time for the schools alternate drive thru commencement. Not a simple task considering the short turn-around time! The coins are stunning and will be a meaningful keepsake that the grads will have for years to come. Thank you Artur for your hard work and contribution to what will turn our to be a very memorable grad after all!
Tricia Fung - Terry Fox Secondary School
Where can I get custom medals?
At Strike Your Coin, we produce world-class medallions for all occasions. We understand the importance of quality and detail, and our team of skilled craftsmen is dedicated to creating beautiful custom medallions that will be cherished for years to come.
Our team of professional designers have worked with basic and complex designs. We'll be happy to guide you throughout the medal creation process so you can have it easily and fast.
We've developed a custom medal design template to help you get started with your custom medals. Just print out this template and provide us with your design ideas. Our team of talented artists will take your design and turn it into a beautiful, one-of-a-kind medallion.
You can also give us a call or fill out our online form and we'll get back to you with a quote and free medal artwork.
Common questions when ordering custom medals
Here are some questions to ask the medal manufacturer when ordering:
- What medal sizes do you make?
- Do you offer free artwork?
- How long does it take to make the medal mockup after submitting designs?
- What are the minimum and maximum quantities for custom medals order?
- Can the logo be engraved on each side of the medal?
- Do you offer fast delivery if I have a rush order?
- How long do you keep the medal molds/dies if we need to reorder the same design?
- Do you make 3D custom medallions?
- What are the medal colours that I can choose from?
- Is it possible to get a different colour for each side of the medal?
- How long will it take for me to receive my custom medals once I place the order?
We have a dedicated FAQ page that should answer most of your questions. If you have a question that's not answered on our FAQ page, please don't hesitate to contact us via phone, chat or email.
Why order medals from Strike Your Coin?
We've minted thousands of custom medals as well as corporate coins, and we can't wait to hear your ideas. Every custom medallion undergoes manual quality control and we're confident that you will be happy with our product just like our previous clients.
Our customer team is ready to assist you throughout the whole medal production process.
We look forward to working with you!