How Many Types of Custom Medals Are There? The Ultimate Guide to Professional Classifications
For event organizers, purchasing managers, or sports enthusiasts, the question “How many types of medals are there?” is not just about a list. It is about understanding how different manufacturing processes, materials, and designs impact the perceived value of an award.
As a Disney and BSCI-audited manufacturer with over 15 years of experience, BadgeArtisans provides this definitive 6-dimension guide to help you choose the perfect medal for your mission.
1. Classification by Customization Depth
The first step is deciding between a unique brand identity or a cost-effective, quick solution.
- Customized Medals: Fully customized shapes, sizes, and 3D reliefs. Every detail is forged from a new mold to represent your specific brand.
- Stock Medals: Pre-made shapes (like stars or circles) where only the text or center logo is customized.
Custom medals. Support any shape, size, color, and effects including 3D embossment, glitter, enamel color,electroplating color, edge craft available.
In-stock custom blank medals. Only existing designs available. Fixed molds cannot be modified, including text, 3D texture, edges, etc. Only simple customization via laser engraving or stickers is supported.
Table 1: Bespoke vs. Stock Medals
| Feature | Customized (Full Custom) | Stock (Semi-Custom) |
| Mold Fee | Required (One-time) | None |
| Uniqueness | 100% Unique | Common Templates |
| Lead Time | 2-3 Weeks | 3–7 Days |
| Best For | Major Marathons, Brand Events | School Awards, Tight Deadlines |
Custom Medals: Process, Options and Design Freedom
How the Custom Medal Process Works
A custom medal project usually begins with an idea, logo, sketch, or reference image. From there, we turn the concept into a production-ready design, confirm the structure and finish, and then move the project into mold making and manufacturing.
This process gives customers much more control over the final result and makes it possible to create medals that are unique to the event rather than based on a standard template.
What Can Be Customized?
We can customise many different parts of a medal project, including:
- shape
- size
- thickness
- plating colour
- hard enamel or soft enamel
- UV printing
- glitter, luminous paint, or clear coating
- ribbon colour and print
- packaging and display method
Why Choose Custom Medals?
Custom medals are ideal when the medal is part of the event story. If you want a medal that reflects a specific race theme, a city identity, a school culture, a military tradition, or a brand image, custom design is usually the most effective choice.
2.Classification by Event
Most customers start their search based on the specific occasion. Choosing a medal by event type ensures the design, weight, and ribbon style perfectly match the atmosphere of your ceremony.
- Running Medals & Marathon Medals: Including 5k/10k medals these require high durability and visual impact. We recommend Zinc Alloy with 3D relief to showcase race distances and landmarks. Adding Luminous (Glow-in-the-dark) colors is a trendy choice for night runs.
- Corporate Recognition: Professionalism is key. Matte plating combined with Hard Enamel creates a high-end feel that employees will be proud to display in their offices.
- Sports Medals : Ideal for any tournament, our die-cast zinc alloy medals feature dynamic 3D reliefs that bring sports like soccer or swimming to life.
- Military & Commemorative: To honor history and service, Antique finishes are the best choice as they highlight the intricate sculptural details of the design, giving it a timeless, prestigious look.
- Academic & School Graduation: Often ordered in bulk, Soft Enamel or Sticker+Epoxy medals offer the best balance between cost and quality for rewarding students’ achievements.
- Children’s & Fun Events: To capture a child’s imagination, use Glitter enamel or Acrylic materials. These are lighter to wear and visually “pop” with sparkle and bright colors.
Running medals require strong visual impact and creative design. We offer 100% full customization, supporting various running events including 5K and 10K, with customizable styles such as luminous, glitter, rotatable, special-shaped, transparent medals and more.
Marathon medals demand high durability. Using precision zinc alloy die-casting, we support custom thicknesses and shapes. Paired with richly colored soft enamel, marathon medals achieve premium texture and become highly collectible.If the design needs durable recessed color with a polished metal outline, review our soft enamel medals page before finalizing artwork, plating, and production details.
Corporate recognition medals feature simple, classic gold, silver and bronze designs. Various plating finishes enhance their premium look and feel. UV printing and laser engraving clearly display company names, logos and mottos.
For military medals that commemorate history and service, an antique finish is the ideal choice. With 15 years of professional medal production experience, we ensure every military medal is a valuable collectible.
School graduation medals are usually ordered in bulk. We combine flexible and diverse production techniques to create attractive, cost-effective medals within budget, with clear customization of school emblems and commemorative messages.
Kids’ medals adopt safe, lightweight and creative designs. Using glitter, luminous, UV printing and other coloring processes, we achieve bright, appealing colors and unique, fun shapes.
Table 2: Comparison of Event Types
| Event Type | Recommended Process | Design Features | Best Ribbon Style |
| Running & Marathons | Zinc Alloy Die-Cast | Large size (70mm+), 3D cityscapes, hollow-outs. | Wide, heat-transfer colorful ribbons. |
| Corporate Awards | Hard Enamel / Foggy Plating | Sleek, minimalist logos, elegant Foggy Gold/Silver. | Solid color or silk-screened brand ribbons. |
| Military & Memorials | Antique Die-Struck | Heavy weight, 3D relief, Antique Bronze finish. | Classic V-neck grosgrain ribbons. |
| School & Graduation | Soft Enamel / Stickers | Bright colors, school mascots, student names. | Standard 7/8″ grossgrain ribbons. |
| Kids & Youth Sports | Glitter / Acrylic | Lightweight, sparkling effects, fun shapes. | Bright, multi-color patterned ribbons. |
Sports Medals: Best Choices for Different Competitions
Running and Marathon Medals
Running and marathon medals usually need stronger emotional value because participants often keep them for years. Larger sizes, race distance wording, city landmarks, themed shapes, and custom ribbons all help create a stronger finisher experience.
For night runs or themed races, luminous effects, special shapes, and stronger colour contrast can make the medal more memorable and more shareable.
Team Sports Medals
Football, basketball, volleyball, judo, and similar sports often benefit from medals with strong movement, equipment icons, athlete silhouettes, and bold event identity. These medals should feel energetic and recognisable without becoming too crowded.
Kids’ and Youth Sports Medals
For children’s events, the medal should feel fun, safe, and visually exciting. Bright colours, glitter, acrylic details, and lighter structures are often more suitable for younger participants than heavy, formal-looking metal medals.
Design Ideas for Sports Medals
Good sports medals usually focus on action, identity, and achievement. The design should quickly communicate what the event is, what the medal is for, and why it feels worth keeping.
3. Classification by Manufacturing Process
The production process is the primary factor in determining the texture and “prestige” of the medal.
Classified by coloring process
- Imitation Hard Enamel : Colors are fired at high temperatures and polished flat. The surface is as smooth as jewelry.
- Soft Enamel Medals: The most popular choice. It features raised metal edges and recessed colors, giving a tactile 3D feel.
- Luminous/Glow-in-the-Dark: Uses photoluminescent powder. Perfect for Night Runs.
- Glitter: Infused with PET polyester film to sparkle at different angles..
- Sandblasting: Creates a grainy, matte background to make raised logos pop.
- Transparent Paint:Shows the underlying metal texture for a glass-like finish.
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Table 3: Comparison of Coloring Processes
| Coloring Process | Visual Effect | Surface Texture | Primary Feature | Best Use Case |
| Imitation Hard Enamel | High-end, jewelry-like luster. | Polished Flat. No metal borders felt. | Durable, scratch-resistant, and permanent colors. | Corporate Awards, Military Medals, High-end Collectibles. |
| Soft Enamel | Traditional, vibrant colors with high contrast. | Recessed. Metal ridges are raised and felt. | Best cost-to-quality ratio; most popular worldwide. | Marathons, School Sports Days, Club Events. |
| Luminous (Glow-in-the-Dark) | Neon-like glow in darkness (Green/Blue). | Depends on base (Flat or Recessed). | High visibility in low light; charges via UV/Sunlight. | Night Runs, Halloween Events, Security Staff Awards. |
| Glitter Enamel | Sparkling, multi-color shimmering effect. | Gritty or Smooth (if covered with Epoxy). | Uses PET polyester film to catch light at every angle. | Cheerleading, Kids’ Races, Festive & Holiday Medals. |
| Sandblasting | Grainy, matte, and non-reflective. | Fine Sandy Texture. | Creates a high-contrast background for raised logos. | Prestigious Recognition, Historical Anniversaries. |
| Transparent Paint | Glass-like, translucent, and glossy. | Smooth & Deep. | Allows the underlying metal grain or 3D texture to show through. | High-detail 3D relief medals, Architectural designs. |
Classified by metal forming method
- Die-Casting (Zinc Alloy): The best method for hollow-outs or complex 3D portraits.
- Die-Struck(Copper/Brass):Mainly uses highly ductile metals such as copper, iron, aluminum sheets.
Zinc alloy die-cast medals: available in various shapes, sizes and thicknesses, enabling precise and complex 3D & special-shaped designs with the highest degree of customization.
Die-struck medals are made by stamping metal sheet under high pressure, featuring sharp patterns, clean edges and high surface smoothness, but cannot achieve complex 3D effects and requires thin metal sheets.
Table 4: Comparison of Metal Forming Method
| Feature | Die-Casting (Zinc Alloy) | Die-Struck (Copper/Brass/Iron) |
| Material Used | Primarily Zinc Alloy. | Copper, Brass, Iron, or Aluminum sheets. |
| Forming Process | Molten metal is injected into a mold under high pressure (88-ton machines). | A heavy metal die “strikes” a cold metal sheet with immense pressure. |
| 3D & Relief Detail | Superior. Ideal for deep 3D portraits, multi-level textures, and lifelike details. | Classic. Best for 2D or simple 3D relief (2.5D). |
| Hollow-Outs | Excellent. Can easily create intricate holes or cut-outs without extra tools. | Limited. Requires additional “punching” molds, increasing cost for complex cut-outs. |
| Edge Sharpness | Smooth and rounded edges possible. | Extremely sharp and crisp metal lines. |
| Weight & Feel | Moderate weight; feels solid. | Copper/Brass feels significantly heavier and more “premium.” |
| Best Used For | Large Marathon Medals, Interlocking/Puzzle Medals, Complex 3D Designs. | Military Medals, Corporate Lapel Pins, Traditional High-End Medallions. |
Classified by printing method
- UV Printing Medals: The best method for hollow-outs or complex 3D portraits.If you need this printed-centre structure with faster setup, see our blank insert medals options built on ready-made metal bases.
- Sticker:Mainly uses highly ductile metals such as copper, iron, aluminum sheets.
- Silkscreen:Only for flat surfaces, no gradients. High precision for fine patterns, higher price with screen fee.
UV printing medals : Suitable for flat and 3D surfaces, high precision registration. Supports CMYK and gradient printing; very fine patterns may blur.
Sticker Medals: Only for flat surfaces, requires metal frame for easy alignment. Can add epoxy. Low cost, but may warp and yellow over time.
Table 5: Comparison of Printing Method
| Printing Method | Image Detail | Surface Requirement | Best Usage |
| UV Printing | Highest (Gradients) | Flat or Slight Relief | Multi-color logos & Photos |
| Sticker + Epoxy | High | Recessed Area | Budget-friendly full color |
| Silkscreen | High (Solid colors) | Must be Flat | High-precision single colors |
4. Classification by Material & Sustainability
The weight and material of a medal communicate the “heaviness” of the achievement.
- Zinc Alloy: Our specialty. It is rust-proof and allows for intricate Hollow-out designs using our 88-ton die-casting machines.
- Wooden Medals: A BadgeArtisans signature for eco-friendly events. Made from sustainable timber and laser-engraved.
- Acrylic Medals: Transparent or colored plastic. Highly customizable, lightweight, and modern.
Custom zinc alloy medals: flexible shape design,Multi-layer 3D design, highest customization.
Iron custom medals: not suitable for complex multi-layer designs, easy to rust, low cost.
Wooden custom medals: eco-friendly, lightweight, laser engravable for company name/logo, can combine with metal for unique effects.
Acrylic custom medals: lightweight & transparent, weak 3D effect, scratch-prone, low cost.
Table 6: Material Properties Comparison
Material | Weight/Density | Design Flexibility | Rust Resistance | Eco-Friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Zinc Alloy | Moderate | Unlimited (3D/Hollow) | Excellent | Standard |
Iron | Light | Limited (2D) | Poor (if not plated) | Standard |
Copper/Brass | Heavy/Premium | High (Die-struck) | Excellent | Standard |
Wood | Very Light | Laser precision | N/A (Natural) | Excellent |
Acrylic | Very Light | None (Printed) | High (Anti-scratch) | Economic |
Metal Medals: Materials, Uses and Design Options
Zinc Alloy Medals
Among all metal medals, zinc alloy is one of the most popular materials because it offers excellent design flexibility. It works especially well for complex shapes, hollow structures, layered forms, and 3D relief. If a project requires more sculptural detail or a more creative silhouette, zinc alloy is often the best starting point.
Iron Medals
Iron medals are usually chosen for simpler and more budget-sensitive projects. They can work well when the design is more straightforward and when the main goal is cost efficiency. For basic award medals or simpler shapes, iron can be a practical material choice.
Copper and Brass Medals
Copper and brass medals are often associated with more premium and traditional award styles. They usually feel denser and more formal, which makes them suitable for military medals, commemorative medals, and high-end recognition awards.
When to Choose Metal Medals
Metal medals are the best choice when you want durability, stronger perceived value, and a more premium feel in hand. Compared with lighter or novelty materials, metal medals offer better long-term display value and a more classic award experience.
When choosing metal medals, the material affects not only the cost, but also the medal’s weight, appearance, structure, and design possibilities. Below is a simple comparison of the most common metal materials used in custom medal production.
| If You Need… | Best Material | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Complex shapes and strong 3D details | Zinc Alloy | Zinc alloy offers the best flexibility for custom structures such as hollow designs, layered forms, and 3D relief |
| A cost-effective medal for simple designs | Iron | Iron is a practical choice for straightforward medal projects with tighter budgets |
| A premium and formal medal appearance | Copper | Copper gives medals a denser, more refined look that works well for commemorative and recognition use |
| A classic, prestigious award style | Brass | Brass is ideal for medals that need a traditional, formal, and high-end presentation |
5. Classification by Plating & Surface Finish
Plating determines the medal’s “personality”—from modern and shiny to vintage and historical.
- Shiny Plating: Provides a bright, mirror-like finish (Shiny Gold/Silver).
- Antique Plating: A specialized “blacking” process that highlights 3D details, perfect for military or historical awards.
Shiny plating colors including shiny gold/silver/copper/brass/chrome,mirror-like high gloss, vivid colors, smooth surface; modern, stylish, luxurious.
Matte finish colors including matte gold/silver/copper/brass/black nickel /black: low gloss, diffuse reflection, fine smooth non-reflective surface; soft, elegant, low-key, high-end.
Antique finish including anti gold/silver/brass/copper : vintage look, dark recesses & polished highlights, distinct layers & historic sense; retro, classic, solemn
Vacuum plating: rainbow & iridescent colors.Nano spray plating ,Gradient colors plated,Perfect on intricate 3D design,Medals are stronger and more durable.
Table 7: Plating Styles and Effects
| Plating Style | Typical Colors | Best Usage | Visual Vibe |
| Shiny | Gold, Silver, copper,brass,chrome | Modern Sports, Youth Runs | Victorious & Energetic |
| Antique | Antique gold/silver/brass/copper | Military, 10-Year Anniv. | Prestigious & Historical |
| Matte/Satin | Matte gold/silver/copper/brass/black nickel/black | Corporate Excellence | Sophisticated & Subtle |
| Rainbow | Vacuum plating Multi-color | E-Sports, Youth Festivals | Rainbow & iridescent colors. |
6. Classification by Innovative Features
Modern medals are no longer static; they are interactive pieces of art.
- Spinner Medals: Central parts that rotate 360 degrees.
- Bottle Opener Medals: Combining honor with everyday utility.
- Puzzle Medals: Multiple medals that fit together to form a larger display.
- Mechanical Medals:Built-in clockwork or spring devices. Features include flapping wings or auto-page-turning mechanisms.
- LED Medals: Integrated LED lights controlled by a switch. Stunning for night events.
Table 8: Functional vs. Interactive Features
| Feature Type | How it Works | Engagement Level | Popular For |
| Spinner | Rotating center piece | High (Fidget-friendly) | Virtual Runs |
| Bottle Opener | Integrated opener shape | High (Utility) | Beer Runs, Festivals |
| Puzzle | Interlocking edges | Highest (Collection) | Series/Multi-stage races |
| Hollow-out | Cut-out metal sections | Aesthetic | High-detail marathons |
| Mechanical | Springs/Gears | High (Moving parts) | Engineering/Premium Event |
| LED | Battery/Switch | Highest (Lighting) | Night Runs/E-sports |
Why Choose BadgeArtisans?
Navigating through these types of medals requires a partner who understands the balance between art and engineering.
- Fast Turnaround: Quotations within 12 hour.
- Factory Direct: Complete control over die-casting, polishing, and coloring.
- Proven Quality: Certified by Disney and BSCI, ensuring your brand is associated with excellence.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Medals
Ready to start your project?
Contact BadgeArtisans today for a Free 3D Design Proof and a customized quote based on your specific classification needs!
Alieen
Business Manager, 5 years of industry experience, gentle, patient, and enthusiastic.
