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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Premium high relief coins are often:
Thicker than standard coins
Heavier in hand
More visually commanding
If your goal is impact, thickness matters.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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