High Polish v Antique: Which Should You Choose?

5-minute read

Choosing a metal plating style is the first step when creating a custom challenge coin design. Gold and silver are the most popular, but the options don’t stop there. We also have copper, nickel, and several colored metal options as well.

However, when you choose a precious metal option, you also have to choose whether you want a high polish finish or an antique finish. Each offers unique characteristics that enhance a coin’s look and feel, so in this article, we decided to explore the differences between the two options so you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. 

When to Choose High Polish Plating

A high polish finish gives your design a sleek, reflective surface. Most often, challenge coins are made from brass or steel. Once the coins are stamped, the plating process is completed using electroplating. By dipping the coins into water charged with electrical current, it’s possible to create a thin layer of gold, silver, nickel, or copper to the surface of the coins. The result is a coin with a brilliant shine.

The best uses for high polish plating include:

• Award Coins: The reflective quality can help create a higher perceived value, especially when the coins are buffed and on display. For anyone interested in years of service coins or coins designed to celebrate accomplishment, high polish plating is a great choice.
• Corporate Coins: A lot of businesses choose high polish plating options because of its clean, professional appearance. It’s also perfect for creating branded designs that incorporate enamel colors matching a company’s brand guide.
• Celebratory Coins: No matter the celebration, high polish plating gives a design a brilliant shine that is perfect for celebrating milestones or any other event.

When to Choose Antique Plating

Antique plating is used to create a vintage appearance with a more textured surface. The darker metal creates a greater level of contrast between raised and recessed areas, so you don’t need to use enamel colors to make certain design elements stand out. Similar to high polish plating, the antique effect is created via electroplating coins made from brass or steel, and the result is a coin with classic appeal.  If you’re looking for a design with a slightly better sense of depth and dimension, antique platting is an excellent option.

The best uses for antique plating include:

• Military Coins: Antique plating has a more traditional nature that lends credibility and authenticity to the historical nature of military challenge coins. Units with 
• Memorial Coins: For a more subdued, respectful tone, antique plating is the best option. 
• Heritage or Historical Coins: Giving your coins an antique finish creates historical ties that give the design a timeless quality.

See More Examples or Get Started on Your Own Custom Coin Design!

If you need to see more examples, check out our coin gallery! Not only are there plenty of plating options to check out, you might find some inspiration for a coin of your own! No matter how you plan on using your challenge coins, choosing a plating style that best suits your design is a breeze. Send in a free quote to get a free artwork proof, and ask us to see different plating styles if you’re not sure which one will work best!