Badge Guides & News
Challenge Coins: Their Meaning, Uses and How to Design Your Own
Oct
A challenge coin is a custom coin that carries an organisation’s emblem. It’s given to recognise membership, service or achievement. The tradition is closely linked with the armed forces, but today businesses, emergency services, clubs and charities use challenge coins to say thank you in a way people keep.
What is a challenge coin?
Challenge coins are small custom coins, usually featuring a crest, logo or motto. They are presented by hand, often in a handshake, to mark a moment that matters: joining a unit, completing a tour, reaching a milestone or going above and beyond.
The “challenge” is part of the fun. In the tradition, one member can challenge others to show their coin, and anyone who can’t produce it buys the next round. Stories about where the custom began vary, but it is most closely linked with military units in the 20th century.
Who uses challenge coins today?
Armed forces and veterans
Units, regiments, associations and reunions
Emergency services
Police, fire and ambulance teams recognising service
Businesses
Milestones, company values, long service and onboarding
Clubs and societies
Members, champions, anniversaries and tours
Charities
Thanking volunteers, fundraisers and supporters
Events
Commemorating a launch, conference or anniversary
Coin, medal or badge?
Designing your challenge coin
Our custom challenge coins are made to your design. You can personalise:
Size and shape
Listed sizes are 25–40mm. Contact us about unusual shapes or sizes
Enamel colours
Matched to Pantone solid coated shades
Plating
Polished, antique, dyed or iridescent finishes
Epoxy or not
A smooth domed finish or a traditional textured one
Packaging
Backing cards, velvet pouches, plastic or leatherette boxes, or custom packaging
Design tips
Lead with your emblem
A bold crest or logo reads best at coin size.
Keep wording short
A name, a motto and a date are usually plenty.
Use a few strong colours
Bright enamel stands out against the metal.
Make it about the moment
Add a year, an event or a milestone to make it a keepsake.
Need help? Our free design service can turn your idea into a proof, and our artwork guide explains how to prepare your files.
How ordering works
Pricing: get a tailored quote
Every coin is made to your design, so we quote for your exact size, colours, finish, packaging and quantity. There’s no minimum order, design is free, and our Lowest Price Guarantee means we’ll beat or match any legitimate lower quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is a challenge coin?
A custom coin carrying an organisation’s emblem, given to recognise membership, service or achievement.
Why are they called challenge coins?
In the tradition, members can be challenged to show their coin, and anyone who can’t produce it buys the next round.
Who can order challenge coins?
Anyone. Businesses, clubs, charities, services and event organisers all use them.
Is there a minimum order?
No. There’s no minimum order on any of our products.
How long do custom coins take?
Usually 3–4 weeks from artwork approval, or 4–5 weeks in busier periods.
What size should my coin be?
Our listed sizes are 25–40mm. Contact us about unusual shapes or sizes, and your free proof shows how it will look.
Can coins be presented in a box?
Yes. Choose from backing cards, velvet pouches, plastic or leatherette boxes, or custom packaging.
How much do challenge coins cost?
It depends on size, colours, finish, packaging and quantity. Get a quote for an exact price.
Design your challenge coin
Send us your emblem or idea and we’ll come back with a free design proof and quote. No minimum order.
Get a quoteor call 01922 285 582