Kind of a Coin: Crafting Custom Keepsakes for Graduates

I’ve always loved how everyday coins can become meaningful personal gifts, especially for big moments like high school graduations. When I recently looked into custom engraved coins as keepsakes, I discovered some really cool possibilities that excited me as a collector. Whether you’re into exonumia or just want to create heartfelt tokens without breaking the bank, there’s something special about putting your own mark on pocket change.

Finding Budget-Friendly Custom Coins

My journey began when I needed about 35 custom coins at around $4 each – similar to what my cousin used to give graduating seniors. Like many collectors, I faced that classic balancing act between cost and quality. Ordering in bulk definitely helps keep prices down, but finding trustworthy suppliers is key. Laser engraving services became my go-to for precision work; a simple search for “laser engraving” locally or on Etsy turned up surprisingly affordable options since machines handle most of the work.

Connecting With Coin Artisans

While researching, I discovered some real gems in the custom coin world. Cindy Calhoun particularly stands out – she’s now President of The Elongated Cent Collectors group and works with talented folks like Rob who designs custom elongated coins. Their partnership shows how our community often thrives through collaboration: artists dream up designs while specialists like Cindy handle the engraving magic. If you’re after engraved pieces, reaching out to experts like them directly can really pay off. Just a tip – their schedules fill up fast, so plan early and have alternatives in mind.

Getting Creative With DIY Options

For hands-on collectors like me, I had to try some DIY methods suggested by fellow enthusiasts. Here’s what actually worked in my workshop:

• Fine-point Sharpies and a magnifier for simple designs – seal it with clearcoat enamel spray to protect your artwork
• Etching with a soldering or wood-burning pen creates permanent marks, but practice first to avoid damaging coins
• When coins aren’t practical, custom dog tags work as affordable alternatives, though they lack that special coin feel

These DIY approaches add wonderful personal flair, but for graduation gifts, I’d still recommend professional engraving for that lasting, polished quality.

Considering Materials and Collectibility

As a collector, I naturally started thinking about the numismatic side. Engraved coins live in that interesting space between jewelry and PMD (Post Mint Damage) – which might affect grading for serious collections but doesn’t matter one bit for keepsakes where sentiment rules. Material choice makes a difference too; copper cents engrave much better than zinc ones and carry that nostalgic weight. With whispers about cents possibly being discontinued someday, these custom pieces might gain historical significance. If you can, use pre-1982 copper cents – they work beautifully under the engraver’s tool and collectors appreciate them more.

Creating custom coins for graduates blends artistry with our numismatic passion in such a satisfying way. Track down reliable suppliers through online searches or collector networks, and don’t be afraid to try DIY for smaller projects. It’s amazing how ordinary coins can transform into extraordinary treasures with just a little imagination.