Challenge coins are perfect for recognizing and honoring local law enforcement. With so many heroes pivoting from military to law enforcement, there’s no doubt that many members of the local force are already familiar with challenge coins. Here’s a look at four tips for creating iconic challenge coins for local law enforcement.
1. Take Time to Identify the Department’s Values and Identity
When designing a custom challenge coin for local law enforcement, it’s important to select imagery or mottos that symbolize the department’s core mission. Take a look at the department’s current emblem to get inspiration! If the department takes on any special service projects, they could also be incorporated into the coin. For example, a local police department might pour time into offering youth resources or support for domestic violence.
2. Sprinkle in the Story of Your Town or City
Local law enforcement is tasked with preserving the peace and honor of the communities they serve. That’s why incorporating some local history into a challenge coin’s design is such a great idea. Some ideas for using your town’s story include the following:
- The date the town or city was founded.
- An image of the official tree or flower of the town or city.
- An image of a special monument or fountain in town.
- An image of the town hall or police department.
- The likeness of a special hero who saved lives or gave back to the community.
It doesn’t matter if your local law enforcement oversees a big city or small village. Every community has recognizable symbols and images that unite its people! If you’re having a hard time coming up with ideas, consider running a community poll to ask people what they consider to be the most enduring symbol of your town.
3. Go Blue
Blue is the universal color associated with law enforcement. Sticking with a blue theme when designing challenge coins can make these keepsakes instantly recognizable. Additionally, sticking with blue ensures that you won’t inadvertently make it look like the coins are associated with other causes. However, you might want to intentionally add colors that are associated with causes if the challenge coins are being produced as part of an effort to raise awareness. For example, some departments might issue teal-themed challenge coins in honor of Autism Acceptance Month in April.
4. Consider Several Versions for Different Occasions
When creating challenge coins for local law enforcement, it’s smart to create several different versions that can be awarded for different efforts and achievements. These different versions can represent different levels of accomplishment at various times throughout an officer’s career. For example, different coins can be created to commemorate service to the community, promotion within the force, retirement, and much more. While some challenge coin versions can be upbeat and fun, others can be designed to be more reverent and serious. Working with a highly rated challenge coin company is essential for ensuring that high-quality, keepsake-level challenge coins are being created.
When creating a challenge coin design for a local law enforcement agency, use the above 4 tips to develop a challenge coin everyone will appreciate.
