Can A Photo Be Used on a Custom Coin?

October 16, 2023

We have yet to meet anyone who has not tried to imagine their picture on a piece of money. The exciting news is this fantasy can easily become a reality with customized coins. Photos or images can be a powerful way to promote or honor an individual on a custom coin. There is something about a picture and some say a picture is worth a thousand words. What message will your custom coin design say about you?

PinProsPlus is not only an expert in crafting quality custom coins but we can create them for any occasion, no matter how big or small. It is truly up the customer and whatever you decide to do, we are more than willing to oblige. We can add an image to any coin design by the offset printing method similar to that of our photo dome pins.

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Photos can add unforgettable detail to any coin design. Using the diestruck coin process can limit the detail that can be achieved when adding a person’s likeness to a coin design. Metal lines are used to create the details of the images which can leave the image almost unrecognizable. This becomes even more difficult when enamel color is added to the design as each color needs a metal border. Images can be simplified but that can leave the image missing many important features and details.

In our industry, the process of creating items using photographic images is called offset printing. This method allows us to print images directly onto the coin’s surface instead of embossing the design into the metal as we would other types. The greatest benefit of using offset printed coins, which are also called photo or picture coins, is how they capture the details and the many colors variances in the picture.

Custom coins can be the perfect addition to a business’ award programs or corporate functions. Using images of specific employees, entire departments, group photos from sports events, and other business gatherings, works wonders for boosting morale and encouraging employee involvement. Adding offset printing allows you to add these special images to your custom coin design.

There are many reasons why you would want an image on a coin. Birthdays, anniversaries, memorials, graduations or “just because” are a few reasons why individuals choose to create a coin that has their or someone else’s picture on it. These can become wonderful keepsakes for any occasions and organizations. Imagine the reaction of those presented with these custom coins with a specific image of a family member, team, couple or military unit.

Another benefit is being able to design one or both sides of your challenge coins. One side could display your personal photograph with a traditional metal finish on the other.  Choosing the double-sided option means the same picture can appear on either side, or a different one on each. While the price may be slightly more for the offset printing option is a worthwhile spend to capture that perfectly look and image.

Most of us agree that glossy photos are nicer to look at.  Well, the same is true for picture coins.  We can easily create the same effect using our epoxy dome option. This detail is inexpensive to add and requires the application of a liquid epoxy that hardens to a clear and glossy finish once fired in our production oven.  The added protection prevents damage to the printed image while increasing the attractiveness of your rare coin.

Let our skilled and intuitive designers put together a using your favorite photo or image. We can incorporate your vision into a memorable keepsake that will be treasured for a lifetime. We can provide the best design with the perfect metal finish, coin edge design, text and overall layout. These will all be displayed on a proof for your approval with revisions as needed to get your custom design just right for you.

Don’t forget the final touch to any coin with our numerous presentation options. You’ve added the personal touch of an offset printed coin for a special gift or award but how will you present it? We have several options available such as a clear plastic coin capsule, velvet bags, clear coin pouches and black velvet boxes. Any of these options will show the importance of your custom offset printed coin.

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