Custom silver coins are a stunning way to commemorate achievements, honor military service, celebrate corporate milestones, or create collectible keepsakes that hold lasting value. But how much do they actually cost?
Whether you're planning a small run of silver coins for a special event or need a large quantity for resale, understanding the key factors that influence pricing is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the typical costs, what affects pricing, and how to get the best value without sacrificing quality.
Custom silver coins are made using real silver—typically .999 fine silver or sometimes sterling silver (92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals). They are usually die struck or cast and can include custom designs, 3D elements, edge text, color enamel, and other unique features.
These coins differ from silver-plated or base metal coins in both their value and cost. Real silver has intrinsic material value, which makes it an ideal choice for prestigious awards, high-end gifts, or investment-grade collectibles. Maybe you inherited silver, then read this article on what to do with the silver.
The price of custom silver coins can vary significantly based on quantity, size, design complexity, and current silver market rates. As a general guide:
Small runs (under 100 coins): $35–$100 per coin
Mid-sized orders (100–499 coins): $25–$60 per coin
Bulk orders (500+ coins): $15–$40 per coin
These are ballpark figures, and the final price per coin will depend on several factors we’ll explore below.
The most significant factor influencing cost is the current market value of silver. Silver prices fluctuate daily based on global economic conditions. If silver is trading at $25 per ounce, that directly impacts the raw material cost of your coins. Most silver coins weigh 1 oz or less, but larger or thicker designs will require more silver, increasing the cost.
Pro tip: If you're working with a tight budget, keep an eye on silver prices before placing your order.
Larger coins naturally require more silver, which means higher material costs. A standard custom silver coin might be 1.5 in diameter and weigh around 1 oz. Increasing the size, thickness, or 3D relief will push the cost higher.
1 to 1.5 coins: most common and affordable
2+ coins: higher silver content and production cost
More intricate designs may require additional tooling or higher-end die work. Features like:
High-relief 3D sculpting
Dual plating (antique silver + polished highlights)
Edge text or custom edges
Sequential numbering
Enamel color fills
All of these can increase the per-coin cost due to added labor and production time.
As with most custom products, the more coins you order, the lower your per-unit cost. That’s because the cost of the custom die and setup is spread across more coins. For example:
A 50-coin order might cost $70 per coin
A 500-coin order of the same design could drop to $25–$35 each
Adding custom packaging—like velvet boxes, coin capsules, or display cases—can increase the overall cost but elevate the presentation dramatically. This is especially popular for awards or collector coins.
Expect to add:
$1–$10 per coin depending on packaging style
$2–$5 for engraved or branded presentation boxes
In short: yes—when used in the right context. Unlike base-metal challenge coins, silver coins carry intrinsic value that holds up over time. They're perfect for:
Military recognition coins
Limited edition collectible series
Premium donor gifts or fundraisers
Commemorative business milestones
They not only look impressive but are also treasured keepsakes people are proud to display and keep for a lifetime. If you are curious about the cost of gold, here is an informative blog about investing in Gold.
Here are a few expert tips to stretch your budget without cutting corners:
Work with an experienced coin maker. You’ll avoid costly revisions or quality issues.
Choose the right size and weight. Sometimes a thinner 1 oz coin looks just as impressive as a thicker version.
Order in bulk. If possible, consolidate orders for multiple recipients to get volume discounts.
Consider pre-designed elements. If you're on a tight timeline or budget, use standard edges or backs with custom fronts.
Our suggest the Monterey Company Customized Coins, they specialize in crafting high-quality custom coins—ranging from plated brass and zinc to genuine silver. There team of designers and coin experts will guide you through every step, from initial sketch to final delivery.
They offer competitive pricing, low minimums, and flexible options to help bring your vision to life, whether you're creating a premium award or launching a collectible series.
Custom silver coins are more than just keepsakes—they're a statement of value, craftsmanship, and lasting appreciation. While they do come at a premium compared to base-metal alternatives, the end result is a coin that carries both emotional and material worth.
By understanding the factors that influence cost and working with a trusted manufacturer like The Monterey Company, you can create stunning silver coins that make a lasting impression—without breaking the bank.