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Custom medals typically start at around $3.87 each, while larger or more detailed designs can cost $12 or more per medal. There is no one-size-fits-all price. The final cost depends on factors such as the medal’s size, thickness, order quantity, production method, and overall design complexity.
For 5K races, marathons, school competitions, and corporate events, medals are often ordered in large quantities. A difference of just a few cents per medal may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference when you are ordering hundreds or even thousands.
So, how much should you budget for custom medals? Below, VeperPins breaks down the main factors that affect pricing, including size, thickness, order quantity, metal finish, and ribbon options, so you can get a clearer idea of the total cost.
Medal Size and Thickness
Size and thickness have a direct impact on price. Larger and thicker medals use more metal and take more work to mold and produce.
A typical race medal is about 2.5 inches wide and 3 mm thick, with a starting price of around $6.76 each for a standard design.
Order Quantity
Order quantity has a big impact on the price per medal. Every order includes upfront work such as artwork approval, mold creation, machine setup, and production preparation.
With a small order, those costs are spread across fewer pieces. As the quantity goes up, the price per medal comes down.
For example, a standard medal measuring 1.75 inches and 2.5 mm thick costs about $3.86 each at 1,000 pieces. Here is how the same design is priced at different quantities:
Small events and internal awards
Schools, clubs, and community events
Small and mid-sized races
A practical quantity for larger events
Large races and bulk event orders
Production Method
The most common production methods for custom medals are enamel, printing, and die striking.
Soft enamel is affordable and leaves the raised metal lines visible, giving the medal more texture. Hard enamel has a smooth, polished surface and usually costs more because of the extra finishing steps.
Printing works well for photos, gradients, small text, and detailed artwork. It is also a flexible option when different images are needed on each medal.
Die-struck medals use raised and recessed metal details without added color. Simple 2D designs cost less, while deep relief, double-sided artwork, and 3D details increase the price.
Plating Finish
Gold, silver, and copper plating are normally included in the base quote.
Antique gold, silver, or copper usually adds about $0.60 per piece. The darker recessed areas give the artwork more depth and work well for vintage themes, commemorative events, and detailed relief.
2D vs. 3D Design
Most race awards use a 2D layout, with raised and recessed metal forming the text, border, and artwork. There is usually no extra modeling charge.
Portraits, animals, buildings, mountains, and other rounded details may look better in 3D. The typical one-time modeling charge is about $125 per artwork, not per piece.
For repeat orders, ask whether the original model can be reused.
Custom Ribbons
Some suppliers charge separately for ribbons, often around $0.65 each for a printed option.
VeperPins includes a standard custom ribbon with regular orders at no extra charge.
Special widths, double-sided printing, gradients, premium materials, and custom attachments may cost more. Contact our sales team for exact pricing.
What Else Can Affect the Final Quote?
Besides size, quantity, and production style, the following upgrades may add to the total:
- Double-sided artwork
- Cutouts or custom shapes
- Additional colors
- Glow-in-the-dark or transparent enamel
- Individual numbering
- Gift boxes, display cases, or velvet pouches
- Rush production
- International shipping
- Material options, including zinc alloy, iron, or copper
Standard poly bag packaging is included at no extra charge. Gift boxes, display cases, and other premium packaging options are available for an additional charge.
Rush service is also available when you are working with a tight deadline. The estimated charge is $0.78 per piece, depending on the order quantity and required delivery date.
Standard shipping is free to select countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Shipping to South America and other regions is quoted based on the delivery address.
When comparing suppliers, look beyond the unit rate. Check whether the quote includes the mold, 3D modeling, ribbon, packaging, and shipping so you know the actual total before placing your order.
How to Keep Custom Medal Costs Down
Order a larger quantity
Custom medals usually require a mold, so ordering more helps spread that setup cost across each piece. Once you know your expected turnout, ordering a few extras at the same time is often cheaper than placing a small reorder later.
Cut back on unnecessary enamel colors
More colors can mean more filling and inspection work. Stick with the main event colors and use the natural metal finish for smaller details. This keeps the design clean while helping control the price.
Choose a manufacturer that offers good value
Don’t compare unit prices alone. Check whether the quote includes the mold, ribbons, packaging, and shipping. VeperPins can recommend the right size, finish, and production method for your budget, so you’re not paying for extras that won’t make much difference to the final medal.
Start Your Custom Medal Order
Ordering medals for a race, school event, or awards ceremony? Send VeperPins your artwork, quantity, and deadline, and we’ll provide a quote along with free design support.
With our own production line, we can better control quality and turnaround times. Order now and save 20% on your project.
