Antique Finish Techniques for Vintage-Style Medals and Coins
The antique finish transforms ordinary metal pieces into vintage-style masterpieces. With a muted sheen and surfaced shadows, antique gold medals and custom challenge coins gain timeless character. This finish lets 3D logos and raised text stand out clearly, while hiding fingerprints and minor scratches. Whether creating commemorative medals or collectibles, manufacturers like Gairun use specialized antique plating processes to achieve these stunning effects.
Understanding Antique Plating Processes
Antique plating involves several steps that give medals and coins an aged look without sacrificing durability. The process starts with thorough cleaning and polishing. Next, the base metal—such as zinc alloy, brass, or iron—is electroplated with a layer of gold, brass, nickel, or copper.
After initial plating, a dark patina solution is applied. This liquid settles into crevices, around 3D relief details, and along etched text. The craftsman then gently buffs the piece by hand or machine, removing excess patina but leaving it in recessed areas. The contrast reveals sharp relief, as shadows deepen and highlights emerge.
Key Steps in Antique Plating
- Deburring and polishing: Ensures a smooth surface for plating.
- Electroplating: Applies base finish (antique gold, brass, nickel, etc.).
- Patination: Adds aged coloration, enhancing relief contrast.
- Buffing: Removes superficial excess, focusing patina in details.
- Quality checks: Tests for adhesion, color, and thickness (using XRF and visual inspections).
Choosing the Right Material
Not all metals respond the same to antique plating. Zinc alloy works well for complex shapes; brass offers warmth and weight; iron or steel provides durability but may require extra corrosion protection. Gairun matches the material to design needs, lead times, and price targets.
Comparing Antique vs. Bright Finishes
Finish selection impacts both appearance and functionality. Antique plating creates depth and historic charm, while bright finishes present a crisp, modern look. The table below shows key differences in cost, maintenance, and best-use scenarios.
| Finish Type | Visual Style | Best For | Durability | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antique Gold | Soft sheen, visible relief, shadowed recesses | Commemorative medals, challenge coins, collector items | High (covers scratches, hides wear) | Moderate |
| Bright Gold | Mirror shine, flat surface highlights | Sports medals, awards, event badges | Medium (shows fingerprints/scratches) | Moderate to high |
| Antique Nickel | Muted silver, old-world look | Military coins, identity tags, premium hardware | High | Moderate |
| Bright Nickel | Glossy, light reflection | Keychains, badges, tech labels | Medium | Low to moderate |
Why Antique Plating Works Best for Relief Details
Relief features—such as raised logos, text, and pictorials—gain depth as patina settles in grooves. Bright finishes tend to flatten details, making 3D elements harder to see from a distance. Antique finishes reveal intricate craftsmanship and give high relief designs visual punch.
Antique Gold Medals: Manufacturing Insights
Making antique gold medals starts with precision molds. For crisp relief, most use CNC-milled or wire EDM steel dies for accurate, clean cavities. Gairun sets relief heights between 1.8mm and 4.5mm, giving logos and text pronounced shadows.
Step-by-Step: Antique Medal Production
- Die creation: CNC/wire EDM for sharp relief shapes.
- Die casting or stamping: Choose zinc or brass, depending on complexity and budget.
- Deburring/tumbling: Remove sharp edges, smooth minor flaws.
- Electroplating: Cover with gold underlayer (2–5 microns thick, verified by XRF).
- Patina application: Brush or dip darkening agent onto cooled medals.
- Selective buffing: Control depth of matte vs. shadow; reveal signature details.
- Final checks: Ensure consistency; test adhesion (ASTM D3359), salt-spray resistance (ASTM B117), and nickel release where wearable (EN 1811).
Finish Longevity and Maintenance
Antique finishes tolerate frequent handling. Patina hides minor blemishes and fingerprints, unlike high-gloss surfaces. Standard care—gentle wipe, dry storage—preserves their look for years.
Custom Challenge Coins with Antique Plating
Challenge coins, used in military, clubs, and special events, showcase team pride and unity. Most designs feature bold emblems and mottos in deep relief. Antique plating brings these details to life, especially with dual-tone effects like antique gold on black nickel.
Techniques for High-Relief Coins
- Multi-level die cutting for 2D/3D shapes
- Use of soft/hard enamel for color separation; antique finish on metal borders
- Laser engraving for fine micro-text (less than 0.3mm stroke width)
- Matte buffing and edge sanding for hand-finished look
- Epoxy dome for added scratch-resistance (optional)
Assembly and Packaging Options
Most antique coins pair well with velvet boxes, clear acrylic holders, or OPP bags. Gairun offers pins, magnetic backs, or leather pouches, optimizing for event branding or B2B gifting. Custom packaging accentuates the finish.
Design Tips for Vintage-Style Medals and Coins
Careful design preparation ensures the antique plating looks consistent and highlights relief. Focus on bold, clear lines. Set text and logos at least 1.2mm above base level. Use contrasting shapes that play well with patina. Avoid excessive micro-detail, which may lose definition after buffing.
Optimizing for Different Applications
- Sports medals: Use antique gold or brass to emphasize achievement and tradition
- Brand badges: Go antique nickel for a premium, subtle sheen
- Furniture hardware/nameplates: Antique finishes provide durability and classic look
- Luggage/fashion accessories: Pair antique plating with custom color epoxy for unique branding
Quality Standards and Compliance Checks
Reliable antique finishes require precision and compliance. Gairun’s approach includes routine AQL sampling under ANSI/ASQ Z1.4, visual inspections for plating uniformity, and testing for nickel release per EN 1811. Exported medals and coins meet RoHS and REACH requirements for safety and heavy metals. Plating thicknesses are measured using XRF; salt-spray resistance is checked according to ASTM B117 to ensure longevity in humid climates.
Common Testing Metrics
- Thickness: 2–5 μm (XRF measurement)
- Hardness: HV40-150 depending on metal type
- Color variation: ΔE < 2 for batch consistency
- Adhesion: Passes ASTM D3359 tape test
- Salt spray: 24–120 hours per spec
Elevation Through Craftsmanship: Gairun’s Approach
Gairun integrates antique plating and custom finishing into every stage of medal and coin manufacturing. By combining precise die design, material selection, and controlled patina application, the factory delivers products that exceed client expectations. OEM and ODM options allow brands and event organizers to tailor each project—whether small-batch commemoratives or mass-produced award medals.
Custom Services and Business Value
- MOQ flexibility for unique commemorative runs
- Rapid prototyping (5–7 days for sample)
- Design consulting for optimal relief and plating
- On-time delivery backed by rigorous QC
Expert Takeaway
Antique finishes not only highlight raised designs, but also add lasting resistance to wear—a key advantage for heavily handled medals and coins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What metals are best for antique gold medals?
Zinc alloy and brass are most common, balancing durability with crisp relief and reliable plating results.
Can antique plating work with colored enamel?
Yes, antique finishes complement soft/hard enamel fills; use patina only on exposed metal for dramatic contrast.
How does antique plating improve relief details?
The dark patina settles in recesses, deepening shadows and making 3D text and logos more visible and tactile.
Are antique challenge coins more scratch-resistant?
Antique finishes hide minor scratches and fingerprints, keeping coins looking new longer than bright finishes.
What packaging works best for antique medals?
Velvet boxes, acrylic holders, and OPP bags protect finishes and present medals professionally for events and gifts.
Is antique plating compliant with safety standards?
Yes, reliable factories test for RoHS, REACH, and nickel release, ensuring medals are safe for skin contact and export.
