Premium High Relief Challenge Coins – Deep 3D Die Struck Detail

When Detail Matters, Go High Relief

Not all challenge coins are created equal.

High relief challenge coins feature sculpted, multi-level 3D metal detail that creates depth, shadow, and dimension you can see and feel. These coins are designed to stand out immediately — in hand, in photos, and in display.

If your coin represents excellence, sacrifice, leadership, or prestige, high relief is the right choice.

  • High relief means the raised metal elements are sculpted at multiple levels rather than flat 2D lines.

    Instead of a simple outline, your design becomes:

    • Layered metal depth

    • Contoured surfaces

    • Sculpted portraits

    • Dimensional vehicles or emblems

    • Raised textures and surfaces

    The result is a coin that feels engineered, not printed.

  • High relief coins are typically chosen for:

    • Military command coins

    • Law enforcement leadership coins

    • Retirement presentations

    • Executive recognition

    • Special anniversary releases

    • Limited edition commemoratives

    • Business card coins

    These are not everyday coins.
    They are statement pieces.

  • We manufacture premium high relief coins in solid brass, not zinc alloy.

    Why it matters:

    • Brass holds sharper sculpted detail

    • Heavier, more substantial feel

    • Cleaner metal transitions between levels

    • Longer-lasting finish

    • Professional weight and balance

    When someone flips your coin in their hand, they should feel the quality.

  • We discourage cluttered artwork.

    The best challenge coins focus on:

    • Strong central imagery

    • Bold raised metal

    • Clean enamel sections

    • Depth that creates shadow and contrast

    We optimize every design for metal, not just digital art.

  • High relief works best when the design is intentional.

    We design for metal — not just artwork.

    Best uses for high relief include:

    • Unit insignias

    • Portraits

    • Military aircraft or vehicles

    • Law enforcement badges

    • Corporate emblems

    • Anniversary coins

    • Executive presentation pieces

    We adjust depth, angles, and transitions to maximize light and shadow.

  • In high relief coins:

    • Raised metal areas remain metal finish

    • Recessed areas may be filled with soft enamel

    • No epoxy over sculpted surfaces (so you can feel the depth)

    This preserves the tactile experience that makes high relief coins premium

  • Premium high relief coins are often:

    • Thicker than standard coins

    • Heavier in hand

    • More visually commanding

    If your goal is impact, thickness matters.

  • Step 1 – Share Your Idea

    Send us your logo, concept, or rough sketch.

    Step 2 – Approve Your 3D Artwork

    We create a production-ready digital proof showing metal depth and enamel areas.

    Step 3 - Payment

    When you approve the final art, an invoice will be sent for payment. Once the invoice is paid your coins will go into the production queue.

    Step 4 – Minting & Delivery

    Minting takes between 30-45 days for quality hand made coins. We prioritize quality over speed. When your coins are finished the will be shipped directly to you.

    No guesswork. No surprises.

    Available Finishes

    Choose from 15 premium metal finishes including:

    • Antique Brass, nickel, gold, copper, or silver metal plating

    • Shiny Gold, silver, copper, chrome, or brass

    • Matte Gold, nickel, or copper

    • Black Nickel

    • Dyed Black

    Finish selection can dramatically change the look and feel of your coin. We help you choose the best finish for your design.

  • Standard 2" custom challenge coin:

    • One-time die fee

    • Per-coin pricing based on quantity

    • Discounts at higher volume levels

    For an exact quote, tell us:

    • Coin size

    • Estimated quantity

    • Any special edge or finish options

    • Numbering or laser edge engraving

    Request a custom quote below.

  • Gray Water Ops® is a veteran-owned company with over 30 years of challenge coin design experience.

    We have produced custom coins for:

    • Military units

    • Federal agencies

    • Law enforcement departments

    • Corporate brands

    • Nonprofit organizations

    Our focus is quality craftsmanship and long-term relationships.

If You Want Your Coin To Feel Elite

High relief is the difference between a standard commemorative coin and a premium presentation piece.

Depth creates authority.

Weight creates presence.

Precision creates pride.

Request a premium high relief quote below.

Why Choose Gray Water Ops® Smart Coin®?

When it comes to custom challenge coins, Gray Water Ops® stands out from the competition. Our Smart Coin® are not just any challenge coins; they're meticulously crafted pieces of art that offer a tactile experience unlike any other. Holding a Smart Coin® in your hand, you can feel the 3D detail, the weight, and the texture. It's a tactile, sensory experience that is as rewarding as the recognition the coin represents.

artist Keith Hanshaw - DINFOS Ft Meade, MD

Meet Artist Keith Hanshaw

We owe much of our success to the unparalleled talent of our resident artist, Keith Hanshaw. Since 1995, Keith has been designing custom challenge coins, bringing a unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship to every piece. His designs are renowned worldwide for their distinctiveness and quality. Each Smart Coin® he creates is a solid, heavy, thick challenge coin that truly stands out, reflecting the pride of the person giving it and inspiring appreciation from the person receiving it.

Challenge Coins - Military - Business card coins - Events Favors - Promotional giveaways - Golf ball markers - Bottle openers - Magnets - Key chains