A lot of people struggle to turn the pictures in their heads into words. 

If that sounds familiar, you’re probably wondering how to explain to a supplier what you want your challenge coins to look like. 

Questions like, “How do I make sure the coins turn out exactly the way I want?” and “What details do I need to give the supplier?”. 

Feeling unsure at this stage is completely normal. 

Most people hit the same roadblock when writing a design brief. 

But with the right guidance, it’s easier than you think. 

At Badges and Medals, we’ve helped thousands of organisations order custom challenge coins. 

We know how to turn your ideas into clear, concise design briefs that get the results you’re looking for. 

In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to do the same. 

By the time you finish, you’ll know what to say so your supplier nails the design on the first go.

How to write a challenge coin design brief:

Every great design starts with clear instructions. 

To make writing your design brief as easy as possible, you can copy and paste the following sentences into your email to the supplier. 

Just choose the options that apply to your design then fill in the blanks. Simple! 

  • Start with the essentials.

But first, if you haven't done so already, begin by letting the supplier know the number of coins you want and your deadline. 

This helps the supplier prioritise your order, and make sure your designs are completed on time.

Copy this: "I'd like to order [quantity] challenge coins. I need them by [date]."

  • Add your inspiration.

Next, attach anything that visually represents your brand or the design you have in mind. 

This could include your organisation's logo, any specific artwork you want on the challenge coins or images that inspire the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for. 

If you have brand guidelines or specific colours you want to use, consider attaching those as well. 

Copy this: "I've attached my organisation's logo and my inspiration to this email."

To make it easier for your supplier to understand your vision, you might want to briefly explain how you want these elements to be used on the coin. For example, you could say, "Add the logo to one side of the challenge coin," or, "I've chosen this picture as my inspiration because I like the unique coin shape."

  • Pick from the following options to describe your design.

Next, write: "Here's what I'm after design-wise..."

Then, go through the list below and pick the design elements that best explain what you have in mind. 

Simply copy and paste those that apply into your email and fill the blanks. 

Not quite sure what design elements to include or what they mean? 

Scroll down for a deeper dive into each element, or click on a link above to skip to a specific section.

Challenge coin design elements, explained:

Coin shape:

Most challenge coins are round in shape. 

However, yours doesn't have to be. 

You can choose a different shape, like a triangle, square, or even a custom design. 

There are two reasons you might do this: to better show your organisation's personality or to stand out from the crowd. 

Either way, there is one practical consideration to keep in mind before you switch: circular coins offer the most space for design details and text, so if you choose an unconventional shape, you may need to simplify your design a bit. 

Copy this:

  • "I want my coin to be shaped like a circle."
  • "I want my coin to be shaped like a triangle."
  • "I want my coin to be shaped like a square."
  • "I want my coin to be a custom shape. Please see the attached [logo/drawing]."

Coin size:

The most popular challenge coin sizes are 50mm and 70mm wide. 

However, you can make your coin much smaller or larger than this. 

For example, at Badges And Medals, we can make anything from 40mm to 100mm coins. 

When selecting the size, think about how the coin will be used. 

A smaller coin tends to be cheaper and easier to carry. Meanwhile, a larger coin can make a bold statement and offer more design space for intricate details.

Copy this:

  • "I want my coin to be 50mm in diameter."
  • "I want my coin to be 70mm in diameter."

CAF Coins-02-1An example of a large challenge coin (80mm wide) with a custom shape.

Coin material:

The material of your challenge coin plays a big role in how much people think it's worth. 

Most challenge coins are made from zinc alloy because it's affordable and gets the job done. 

But if you want to give your coin a more premium feel, you can choose brass instead.

Brass is heavier than zinc alloy, which makes it feel more valuable. 

This makes it perfect for special events or awards, so long as you're willing to fork out a bit more.

Copy this:

  • "I want my coin to be made of zinc alloy."
  • "I want my coin to be made of brass."

Coin thickness:

Most challenge coins are around 3mm thick - about the same as two US pennies stacked on top of each other. 

But you can up this to 4mm or 5mm,

Why? Well, a thicker coin feels heavier to people and suggests it's more valuable. 

The only downside is that thicker coins cost more than thinner ones because they're made of more metal.Copy this:

  • "I want my coin to be 3mm thick."
  • "I want my coin to be 4mm thick."
  • "I want my coin to be 5mm thick."

Coin base colour:

While many challenge coins are a gold or silver base colour, there’s no need to limit yourself to these traditional choices. 

Most suppliers can make their challenge coins in a whole spectrum of colours, even if they don't advertise it. 

Going for a more unconventional colour - such as bronze, white, or black - can make your coin more memorable. 

That said, not all colours will work with every design. 

For example, it can be hard to read text on black challenge coins because they don't reflect much light. 

So, because you pick your base colour, consider how it will complement your other choices.

Copy this:

  • "I want my base coin colour to be gold."
  • "I want my base coin colour to be silver."
  • "I want my base coin colour to be bronze."
  • "I want my base coin colour to be black."

challenge coin_53-1An example of a challenge coin with a black base colour.

Coin finish:

A finish is essentially a tint applied over the base colour of your challenge coin. 

It plays a big role in how your coin is perceived. 

If left alone, most base colours look bright and shiny, which can sometimes make them look a bit cheaper than intended. 

To combat this, many suppliers add an antique finish, which tones down that brightness and gives your coin a more sophisticated look. 

If you'd rather have a shiny coin, let your supplier know.

Copy this:

  • "I want my coin to have an antique finish."
  • "I don't want my coin to have an antique finish."

Coin enamel:

Enamel is what suppliers use to colour in the details of your challenge coin. 

Without it, your design will be the same colour as the coin's base - which is fine, if that's what you're after! 

If it's not, then as long as the area you want to colour is at least 0.5mm wide, you can add enamel. 

For something truly unique, you can even add glitter or glow-in-the-dark enamel to your coin. 

The only thing to keep in mind is that enamel is used to colour specific areas, not the entire coin. 

Also, the more you use, the more expensive your coin. 

Copy this:

  • "I'd like this [specific detail] to be [colour]."

coin-07-1An example of a challenge coin with lots of enamel colouring.

Coin texture:

Textures are a fantastic way to make your challenge coin pop. 

They come in many forms, such as crosshatching or sandblasting, and can be added to almost anywhere. 

For example, you can use a sandblast texture to make your text look sparkling. 

However, it’s important to choose wisely. 

Some textures might not work well with certain base colours or text. 

Talking with your supplier to find a texture that enhances your coin. 

Copy this:

  • "I'd like this [specific detail] to be sandblasted."
  • "I'd like this [specific detail] to be crosshatched."

Coin edge:

You can add special patterns to your challenge coin's edge to make it stand out. 

Think of it like putting a picture frame around a photograph. 

There are dozens of patterns, ranging from simple to bold and bright. 

We've included the complete list of options below. 

To learn more about a specific edge, click the links below or read our articles on 'Top 6 Most Popular Challenge Coin Edges' or 'Most Unique Challenge Coin Edges, Revealed'.

Copy this:

Coin - Regular Force Cadet_2An example of a cross-cut edge.

Coin engraving:

Engraving is a powerful way to make your challenge coin more personal. 

It's when words or symbols are etched onto the coin’s face or edge. 

Whether it’s a name, unit number, or a special date, engraving adds that extra level of meaning to the coin. 

However, it's important to keep in mind that space can be limited, especially on the edge of the coin. 

Most engravings are short and sweet - just enough to make the challenge coin unique.

Copy this:

  • "I want the edge of the coin to be engraved with [words]."
  • "I want the coin face engraved with [words]."

Coin cut-out:

A cut-out is when parts of the challenge coin are removed to create negative space. 

They're used to add depth, highlight key elements, or even create fun, functional features, like a bottle opener. 

You can fully customise your coin's cut-outs to fit your design. But keep in mind that larger cut-outs may reduce the overall strength of the challenge coin.

Copy this:

  • "I want [section] of the coin to be cut-out."

3D coin parts:

When something is 3D, it has depth, width, and height. In other words, it's not flat. 

Adding 3D elements to a challenge coin makes parts of it stand out. 

You can make any part of your challenge coin three-dimensional. 

However, it tends to work best on things in the centre of a challenge coin's face or on items that might not look great in 2D, like people's faces. 

Copy this:

  • "I want [section] of the coin to be three-dimensional."

Custom New Zealand Police challenge coin.An example of a challenge coin with a 3D lizard.

Moving coin parts:

Moving parts transform a static challenge coin into a playful, interactive experience. 

Instead of just looking at the coin, recipients can engage with it - whether it's a part that spins or slides. 

However, not every supplier offers this option, because it's technical work and usually involves creating more than one mould for your coin. 

Because of this, challenge coins with moving parts tend to be a lot pricier than those that don't.

But if you're looking for a challenge coin that truly wows people, it's worth considering.

Copy this:

  • "I want [section] of the coin to spin."
  • "I want [section] of the coin to slide."

Unique coin materials:

One of the best ways to make your challenge coin stand out is to add unique materials. 

Think about using seashell, stone, glass, or even plastic on your coin. 

Chances are, if you've never seen a coin with unique materials, your recipients haven't either, and they'll be very impressed! 

However, not all suppliers offer this service, so it’s important to check with them first. 

If they do provide it, ask about any restrictions they might have. 

For example, some suppliers cannot add glass to small areas.

Copy this:

  • "I want [section] of the coin to be seashell."
  • "I want [section] of the coin to be glass."
  • "I want [section] of the coin to be a gemstone."
  • "I want [section] of the coin to be plastic."

Custom Royal New Zealand Air Force challenge coin with seashell.An example of a challenge coin with paua (seashell) in it.

Coin presentation box:

How you present your challenge coins can shape the impression they leave on people. 

Most coins come in plastic sleeves or capsules that protect them but don’t add much flair. 

If you’re looking to impress, consider upgrading to velvet, vegan leather, or cardboard boxes. 

These options cost a bit more but add a touch of luxury that stands out. 

Velvet and vegan leather boxes are especially popular because they feature satin-lined lids and soft bases, making your coins look fantastic. 

At Badges And Medals, we even offer free customisation for your boxes. 

You can add your logo onto its lid, change the colour to match your coin or include a plaque with the recipient's name inside.

Copy this:

  • "I want my coins to come in a cardboard presentation box."
  • "I want my coins to come in a velvet presentation box."
  • "I want my coins to come in a vegan leather presentation box."

Examples of challenge coin design briefs:

Now that you understand the key design elements and how much you can customise them, let’s look at some real-world examples. 

Below are a few coin designs we’ve brought to life, along with the details you’d need to provide to achieve a similar result.

  • '2nd New Zealand Military Intelligence Company' coin 

Custom New Zealand Defence Force challenge coin.

Hi there,

I've attached the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) logo and colours to this email. I've also attached the 2nd New Zealand Military Intelligence Company (NZMIC) logo.

Please add the NZDF logo to one side of the coin and the 2nd NZMIC logo to the other.  

Here's what I'm after design-wise:  

  • I want my coin to be shaped like a triangle.
  • I want my coin to be made of zinc alloy.
  • I want my coin to be 55mm in diameter.
  • I want my coin to be 3mm thick.
  • I want my base coin colour to be gold.
  • I want my coin to have an antique finish.
  • I want a border around both logos. I'd like the border to be black.
  • I want the NZDF logo to be three-dimensional.
  • I'd like the space behind the NZDF logo to be the NZDF colours.
  • I'd like the space behind the 2nd NZMIC logo to be the NZDF dark blue.
  • I'd like the top half of the wolf to be grey. I'd like its accents to be black.
  • I'd like the stars in the 2nd NZMIC logo to be the NZDF red.

For the NZDF side of the challenge coin, include the text 'NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE' above the logo, within the space created by the border. On the 2nd NZMIC side, please add '2ND NEW ZEALAND MILITARY INTELLIGENCE COMPANY' above the logo, with 'KNOW YOUR ENEMY' on the right and 'KA KITE KA MOHIO' on the left.

Thank you.

  • 'Havelock Fire Bridge' coin

Custom Havelock Fire Brigade challenge coin.

Hi there,

I've attached the Havelock Fire Brigade logo and the New Zealand Fire Rescue logo.

Please place one logo on each side of the coin.

Here's what I'm after design-wise:

  • I want my coin to be shaped like a circle.
  • I want my coin to be made of zinc alloy.
  • I want my coin to be 50mm in diameter.
  • I want my coin to be 3mm thick.
  • I want my base coin colour to be silver.
  • I want my coin to have an antique finish.
  • I want my coin to have a cross-cut edge design.
  • I want the background behind both logos to be black.
  • I want the Havelock Fire Brigade logo to be white.
  • I want a small red border around the Havelock Fire Brigade logo.
  • I want the New Zealand Fire Rescue logo to be red and white.

Thank you.

  • 'Command Warrant Officer' coin

Custom Royal Australian Navy challenge coin.

Hi there,

I've attached the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) kangaroo logo to this email and its official colour. I've also attached the Fleet Command logo. Please add the kangaroo to both sides of the coin. Please put the Fleet Command logo inside one of the kangaroos.

Here's what I'm after design-wise:  

  • I want my coin to be shaped like a circle.
    I want my coin to be made of zinc alloy.
  • I want my coin to be 50mm in diameter.
  • I want my coin to be 5mm thick.
  • I want my base coin colour to be gold.
  • I want my coin to have an antique finish.
  • I want my coin to have a rope-edge design.
  • I want a ring of black inside the rope edge.
  • I want the middle of the coin, behind the kangaroo, to be cutout.
  • I want the kangaroo on both sides of the coin to be its official red colour.
  • I want the anchor in the Fleet Command logo to be black, and the hand silver.

For the Fleet Command side of the coin, place 'COMMAND WARRANT OFFICER' above the kangaroo, and engrave each recipient's name below. I've attached the list of names. On the reverse side, add 'ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY' above the logo and 'CWO FLEET COMMAND' beneath it.

Thank you.

Get your free design today:

Ordering custom challenge coins doesn’t have to be complicated. 

By following the simple steps outlined by Badges And Medals in this guide, you will now be able communicate your ideas clearly and effectively. 

Ready to give it a go? Fill out this quick form today for a free challenge coin design and let’s turn your vision into a reality!
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