Part of the popularity of military challenge coins is the fact that they are very easy and very inexpensive to produce. They add a touch of class and elegance to ceremonies without necessarily breaking the bank of the givers. Two of the processes to choose from by which military challenge coins are produced are very low in terms of cost. Zinc Alloys are more inexpensive than brass or bronze coins however one needs to be more careful with them because they also tend to wear off more easily. Bronze coins are used for more important events such as presentations or awardings.
Today, most Military challenge coins are produced in Asia. The US also has strong connections in South Korea where many military challenge coins are fabricated as well. Both labor and material are more inexpensive in both areas. In US soil, price will triple that of the manufacturing in Asia. Price will also vary depending on the size. The standard pocket coin is from 38mm diameter x 2.5mm in thickness while the presentation coin (used in awards) is usually 45mm in diameter x 3mm in thickness. Apart from the size, the finish will also increase or decrease the overall price. Pewter is the most inexpensive with the most expensive being those finished in real 24K gold.
Military challenge coins cost from $5.00 to $15.00 for mass production but the most expensive component will probably be the casting of the die. If the design is complex, then dies will be about $1,000 as the artist has to sculpt it by hand. The intricacy just adds to the significance of the coin and the recipient.
The military challenge coins are not so expensive when they are customized and the designs are modified. It all depends on the materials and the designs used.
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