How Much Should You Really Be Paying for Custom Challenge Coins?
If you’ve ever shopped around for challenge coins, you’ve probably seen prices all over the map. One company might quote $3.50 per coin, while another hits you with $9 or more for the same size. So how much should you be paying?
Let’s break it down.
Basic Rule of Thumb
For a standard round coin under 2.5 inches, you shouldn’t be paying more than $4 to $5 per coin—even for a decent-quality piece. If you’re paying more than that for a basic coin, chances are you’re getting marked up more than you should be.
Now, keep in mind: super intricate coins—especially those with complex cutouts, 3D elements, glow enamel, or heavy metal finishes—can and should cost more. You’re paying for the craftsmanship, time, and tooling that goes into making something truly unique. And that’s worth it.
The “Made in America” Price Myth (and Reality)
Every once in a while, someone will say, “These are made in the USA, so that’s why they cost more.”
Here’s the honest truth: very, very few companies actually manufacture challenge coins in America. Why? Because the cost is extremely high—and most buyers aren’t prepared for what that really means.
If a coin is truly American-made, the pricing looks more like this:
- Die fees can be several hundred dollars per side
- Color fills can cost $.52 per color, per side
- And you’re often looking at $8 to $12 per coin, even for a basic design
So if a company tells you your coins are made in the U.S., but you’re not seeing those kinds of costs… they probably aren’t.
So What Should You Expect to Pay?
Here’s a more accurate breakdown:
| Coin Type | Reasonable Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard round coin (< 2.5″) | $3.50 – $5.00 |
| Shaped or cutout coins | $3.50 – $5.00 (same per coin, but higher die fee) |
| Larger or super intricate coins | $7.00+ |
| Truly U.S.-made coin | $9.00 – $12.00+ |
Shaped and cutout coins don’t usually cost more per coin—but they typically require more expensive dies to produce. That’s where the added cost comes in. On the flip side, coins over 2.5 inches, or those with highly complex 3D features, dual plating, or multi-layered designs, are the ones that push into the $7+ range.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, you should feel confident that you’re getting what you pay for—no mystery markups, no vague promises. We believe in being transparent about pricing, honest about where your coins are made, and fair about what it costs to make something great.
We don’t price like a big company. We don’t operate like one either. We keep our costs low and pass those savings on to you—because we still believe in taking care of people like we’re working with friends and family.