Engraving a coin can be a satisfying artistic or craft endeavor, but it’s important to understand the available methods and necessary tools before starting.
Here are the primary methods for engraving a coin
- Tools: Gravers (sharp, pointed tools), ball vise (to hold the coin), sharpening stones.
- Process:
– Secure the coin in a vise or clamp.
– Transfer your chosen design onto the coin using a scribe, marker, or vinyl sticker with a trace-off method.
– Hold the graver like a pencil and push it forward with even pressure, following your design.
– Adjust pressure and angle to control line depth and breadth.
– Clean off metal shavings as you work and polish the engraved area when finished.
- Tools: Rotary tool (like a Dremel), various engraving bits (diamond burrs recommended), clamps or vise, polishing attachments.
- Process:
– Clean the coin with alcohol.
– Secure the coin in a clamp.
– Transfer or draw your design onto the coin.
– Insert the appropriate engraving bit into the rotary tool.
– Start at a low speed and gradually increase as needed, holding the Dremel like a pencil and following your design.
– Apply steady pressure, but not so much that the tool slips.
– Use polishing attachments and brushes to smooth and shine the coin after engraving.
- Tools: Fiber laser engraver, compatible design software (like LightBurn), blank coins (brass or suitable metal), computer for design, safety gear (protective eyewear, ventilation).
- Process:
– Clean the coin.
– Create or import your design into the software.
– Set the laser power, frequency, DPI, and image mode in the software.
– Secure the coin on the engraving bed.
– Calibrate the laser focus and power settings, [advises LaserPecker].
– Start the engraving process.
– Clean the engraved coin to remove soot or debris, [according to a YouTube video].
- Tools: CNC machine, tool bits (diamond cutter, twist drills, v-bits).
- Process:
– Secure the metal onto the CNC machine.
– Insert the appropriate drill bit based on the material thickness.
– Load the design into the software and set engraving parameters.
– Initiate the engraving process.
– Clean and polish the engraved area.
- Legality: Altering currency may have legal implications, so verify local regulations before engraving.
- Safety: Wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye protection and gloves, especially when using power tools or lasers.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation or use fume extraction when laser engraving to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- Coin Type: Older, softer coins (like copper pennies minted before 1982) may be easier to engrave.
- Practice: All engraving methods require practice and patience to master.
Remember to choose the method that aligns best with your artistic goals, budget, and comfort level with the required tools and techniques.
Can you engrave a coin?
A truly unique coin selected by you to be given as a gift or carry around. This solid metal coin that is laser engraved and hand finished with your choice of designs, text, or even a completely custom choice.
How to do metal engraving at home?
I can help with that. Practice writing what you want to say on the tags (make sure it’s small enough to fit)
Using a wipeable marker, write out your saying on each tag
Clamp or tape tags to work surface
Using a Dremel, go slowly and trace over your hand lettering
Wipe away the marker marks
Is it legal to engrave coins?
In the United States, for example, the federal law does not specifically address the engraving of coins for personal use. However, altering currency with the intent to commit fraud or render it unfit for circulation is generally illegal.
How to make a coin look antique?
From my experience, And now for one of my favorite parts is dropping it in some brass. Black. This stuff will patina the coin. Really quickly and turn it black it’s such a cool reaction.