What’s the Difference Between Soft and Hard Enamel Coins?

As a custom enamel coins enthusiast, you may be in a dilemma whether to go for soft or hard enamel coins. Although both choices come with their own sets of benefits, their difference can be significant, all depending on which goals you’re looking to achieve.

Here’s a quick look at some of these key differences:

Hard Enamel Coins

Hard enamel coins feature enamel added to the coin to achieve a higher point than the design and item itself. The hard enamel coin is a top-quality challenge coin with its color filled with solid pigment. Usually, the enamel is heated at high temperatures before being polished down to desired quality.

Additionally, hard enamel coins boast smooth surfaces, exceptionally colorful etchings, and jewelry-like finish. Because hard enamels coins are produced from high-quality materials, they are a little pricier than their soft counterparts. The main features of custom hard enamel coins include:

• The color is filled with solid pigment
• Production requires a multi-step process to make enamel parts that raise the enamel
• It requires an intense polishing process to make the coins brighter. It is then hardened with a smooth finish
• Features the highest quality and durability with colors that are vibrant for several years to come
• Hard enamel coins are ideal for military coins, navy and air force challenge coins

Soft Enamel Coins

Soft enamel coins are arguably the most popular option for most collectors owing to a cost-effective price. During the production process, colored enamel is poured into the parts of the coin before it is dried with a heat lamp. Because the raised areas are more elevated than the enamel, you will easily notice all the coin details during the production process.

Ideally, unlike the hard enamel coins, the soft enamel designs can be produced with a 3D process. Importantly, you should keep in mind that soft enable isn’t actually soft when touched. Notably, “soft enamel” is an industrial term that refers to the color fill process. The main features of a soft enamel coins include:

• The color is filled with an enamel colorfill
• It is possible to engrave 3D images on their surfaces
• It is created with a raised and recessed areas
• It comes with a vast selection of shapes and sizes
• You can add epoxy coating if you want
• It is a budget-friendly option
• Ideal for several Corporate challenge coins and honor coins

Soft Enamel Coin vs. Hard Enamel Coin: Which Is Good For You?

Whether you will go for a soft enamel or hard enamel coin will depend on your preference and budget. Some people love soft enamel owing to its realistic feel and reasonable pricing model. Others prefer hard enamel coins due to their smooth surfaces, higher quality, and durability.

If you are looking for an outstanding custom challenge coin that meets your specific needs, we are here to help. As the leading challenge coin designer and maker, we specialize in personalized challenge coins that exceed your expectations. We promise to create something special to commemorate your event. For more details, contact us today.