When people talk about the texture in challenge coins, they’re usually referring to the surface finish — the way the coin feels when you run your fingers across it.This texture gives each coin a unique sense of depth and quality. For example, a sandblasted surface adds a soft, matte, golden tone, while a polished finish creates a smooth, mirror-like shine. The overall texture of a challenge coin is shaped by several key design elements, including sandblasting, edge style, hard or soft enamel, 2D or 3D detailing, and coin shape.
Hard Enamel vs Soft Enamel
You’ve probably noticed that many challenge coins feature colorful designs — that color comes from enamel. There are two main types: soft enamel and hard enamel.
With soft enamel, the metal lines are slightly raised while the colored areas sit lower, giving the surface a textured, bumpy feel. In contrast, hard enamel coins have a smooth, even surface where the metal and enamel colors are level — just like the two examples shown here.
This difference in enamel technique adds its own unique texture and character to the coin.
Sandblast
Now that we’ve talked about how color creates texture on a coin, let’s look at the metal areas that aren’t filled with enamel. You’ve probably seen coins where some metal sections look smooth and shiny, while others have a rough, grainy feel. That grainy texture comes from a process called sandblasting. It’s added during the mold-making stage and gives the coin a subtle matte, textured finish.
Sandblast textures actually come in many styles — and in our factory, we offer several different sandblast patterns like the ones shown above. If you want to add this kind of effect to your own challenge coin, just let our support team know what type of sandblast texture you have in mind.
2D or 3D
Besides sandblasting and enamel, the 2D and 3D designs on a challenge coin can also create noticeable texture. In general, 2D coins have raised metal lines with flat areas in between, giving the surface a simple, layered feel. 3D designs, on the other hand, lift an entire element or shape into a rounded, sculpted form. The raised areas are much smoother and more pronounced — and the two images below show this difference perfectly.
If you’re a big fan of the 3D look, just keep one thing in mind: 3D molds are significantly more expensive than 2D molds. It’s a stunning effect, but it’s worth balancing your design ideas with your budget before making the final call.
Edge Option
Another detail that adds to a coin’s overall texture — but is often overlooked — is the edge. You might not think much about it at first, but when you hold a challenge coin in your hand, the edge is one of the first things your fingers notice. Different edge styles create different tactile impressions.
Some of the most common options include Standard Edge, Rope Edge, Chain Edge, Cross-cut Edge, Spur Edge, Reeded Edge, Oblique Edge, and Bezel Edge, just to name a few. Our factory can customize all of these edge styles for your challenge coin. And if you have a special edge idea of your own, feel free to share it with us — we’re always happy to help with design suggestions and budget-friendly quotes.
Shape
Finally, the shape of a challenge coin can also play a big role in its texture and overall feel. Most coins are perfectly round, but you’ve probably seen shield-shaped coins, map outlines, or even completely customized silhouettes. A unique shape doesn’t just make a coin stand out visually — it also adds another layer of tactile interest and helps communicate the story or meaning behind the design.
Take the firefighter challenge coin shown below as an example. Its outline is formed by a firefighter’s helmet and crossed axes, creating a bold, distinctive shape. These elements instantly highlight themes of bravery, duty, and honor — all before you even look at the finer details.
At Factorypin, we’ve been manufacturing challenge coins for over 20 years. So if you’re thinking about adding unique textures to your own coin, we’re here to help. Simply request a free quote or email our team, and we’ll guide you through every step of the process.
