1. When are challenge coins used and for what reasons?

A challenge coin can be the perfect gift at a special commemoration. The typical events people give them out at include:

• Branch of Service recognition
• Distinctive Unit citations and commemorations
• Special Unit anniversaries
• Commemoration ceremonies
• Events honoring acts of bravery
• Corporate meetings
• Branch of Service and Distinctive Unit anniversaries
• Business conferences

People are using challenge coins in new and fun ways every day. It’s really up to you how you want to use them.

2. How do you generate artwork for the initial design?

Before looking for a challenge coin, you should first brainstorm about the design you want on the face of your coin. Remember, you want to be unique, so pick art images or insignias that relate specifically to the event or people to who you are giving your challenge coins. Some options include:

• Cultural symbols like a Distinctive Unit crest
• Symbols like flags, eagle, wreath, and or course copy
• Branch of Service logo
• Distincitve Unit Motto
• Sports teams logos and corporate logos

The possibilities are endless, so take time to narrow down your choices.

3. What is soft or hard enamel?

The difference between a soft enamel and hard enamel challenge coin refers to the finishing techniques. Because the paint fills flush with the coin’s edges, a hard enamel coin has a smoother feel. On the other hand, softer enamel coins have raised metal areas that provide dimension, so they “feel” more textured to the touch. Naturally, hard enamel coins are more costly.

4. What quantity should I order and can I place small orders?

If you need a small quantity for a small unit, flight group, or ship, then a small order is all you will need. However, many are designed for use at big events, like wedding coins or retirement parties. In these cases, you want to be sure that you order enough coins for everyone. Most challenge coin companies require minimum orders of at least 100 coins. That may sound like a lot, but it never hurts to order extra. That way you’re not leaving anyone out when it comes time to distribute them.

5. What type of finish options or electroplating can I order?

Plating refers to the outside covering of the challenge coin. There are many types of plating types to choose. These include:

• High polished gold, silver, or bronze
• Black nickel
• Antiqued gold, silver, or bronze
• Black metal

6. What choices of coin size can I consider?

Coins are measured in diameter. You can choose between our standard sizes of 1.50”, 1.75”, and 2.00”. Large and smaller coins are available in special order which may also be subject to larger minimum order quantities depending on the size and design. Challenge coins are much larger than U.S. coin currency. They range from 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter. This means a quarter is about a half inch smaller in diameter than the smallest standard size challenge coin.

7. How are the coins packaged?

As you decide on how you want your challenge coin packaged. Standard coin orders come with individual poly bags. Also available are gift packaging, clear coin holder cases, and larger gift sets. You can fill out a free design and quote request, and the representatives at Kennedy Challenge Coins will offer you a great deal on coins featuring your customized design.

What's the difference between Asia sourced coins and Made in USA coin?

It's really simple. The answer is quality. We use American labor and 100% USA sourced materials. Most of the base metal used in solid brass for the quality feel of weight in the hand. Options include customer finishes and custom colors of enamel.

What kind of artwork do you accept?

Whether you have a sketch, digital design, or photograph of the custom challenge coin you envision, we can work with it. Because we have in-house design capabilities, don’t worry about creating the perfect design. Our goal is to make your first custom coin project go easy and fast, so send us what you have.

With that said, we ask that you send us the best version of whatever you do have. The more clearly we can understand what you’re looking to create the faster we get to producing it.

How much do coin dies cost?

Our die fees for a (2D) two dimensional coin are $195.00 each side of either a 1.56 ”, 1.75” or 2” coins. Our die fees for a (3D) three-dimensional coin, or special cut coin such as a bottle opener will be quoted per final design. Our tooling fees for special cut coins are a little higher because of their size, unique nature and the time it will take the artist to hand make the die.

Your die will remain the property of Kennedy Challenge Coins, and fall under our copyright and only be used for your reorders upon request.

How small of a quantity can I order?

Minimum order quantity is 250 coins. With a small order the die fee will remain the same; however, the cost of the coin will increase. Please request quantity pricing to see what quantity works best for your event or organization.

Can I have a sample made first?

We provide a digital sample of your proposed coin after placement of order and approval of design. This process assures that you view exactly the design that you will be receiving before going to production tooling. If there isn't a rush for your coins, we highly recommend you review closely your first proof coin in the digital approval process.

Once you pay for your die fee, we will begin working on your order. When your design is finished and ready for your review, it will be sent to you with a customer ID number for review.

Will I be notified when my first order has been shipped?

Yes, we will notify you via E- mail with a tracking number from UPS or FedEx,. With this tracking number, you will be able to track your shipment and know when you can expect its arrival.

How long will it take to make my coins?

A normal coin production takes between 4 to 6 weeks depending on the size and complexity of the order. The process of creating the die takes from 5 to 7 days. The manufacturing of your coins takes 15 to 25 working days. Large orders and custom designed pieces can sometimes take a little longer, so placing your order in advance is strongly recommended.

Can I rush an order?

Yes, typically we can produce your coins and get them in the mail within 20 to 25 business days. When doing a rush, orders can be placed for an additional $.50 per coin. Rush orders may vary on the order, but if your deadline is close, we should be able to make it.

What if I need a coin designed?

If you don't already have a coin designed, our graphics department can create your custom coin for you. We have an extensive library of emergency services, governmental, military and non- military art on hand.

How do I go about re-ordering coins?

More than likely, your coins will be gone very quickly. Simply send us an E- mail with the quantity of coins you need, and we will place the order as soon as we receive a deposit. Remember reorders take less time than the initial order, so the wait is not nearly as long, and you do not pay the die fee a second time.

We have no minimum on reorders, however you will have to pay for shipping costs.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We will accept Visa, MasterCard, Business checks and money orders. Upon your design approval, you can pay by credit card or mail your payment for the full order, (minus the die fee you have already paid). At this point the coins will be minted as soon as we receive your payment.