If you’re planning an event and want to make it memorable with bespoke medals, you’re probably wondering: how much does a custom medal cost?
It’s a fair question, and the honest answer is: it depends. There’s a wide range of pricing out there, from ultra-budget medals mass-produced overseas to premium, handcrafted awards designed just for your event.
In this guide, we’ll break down what affects custom medal cost, how different medal types compare, and why the cheapest option isn’t always the best value in the long run.
What Affects the Cost of a Custom Medal?
Custom medals aren’t one-size-fits-all. The final price will depend on a few key factors:
- Material: Metal, wood, acrylic, or a mix of finishes
- Size & weight: Larger or thicker medals cost more
- Design complexity: 2D vs. 3D, engraving, cutouts, dual plating
- Quantity: Ordering in bulk usually brings the cost per unit down
- Finish options: Enamel fills, antique effects, gold/silver plating
- Extras: Ribbons, presentation boxes, custom packaging
Note: We’re not including exact prices in this article, because material costs and order sizes can change. For the most accurate quote, just get in touch with us, we’re always happy to help.
Comparing Medal Types by Price: From Budget to Premium
Here’s a general ranking of medal types by cost, starting with the most affordable and working up to high-end, fully bespoke designs.
Budget-Friendly Options
1. Printed Insert Medals (Dome or Resin-Coated)
- Cost: Low
- Best for: School events, fun runs, high-volume giveaways
- Pros: Cheap and fast to produce
- Cons: Minimal customisation, your design is usually limited to a printed circle or sticker. The rest of the medal shape is pre-made.
2. Acrylic Medals
- Cost: Low to moderate
- Best for: Youth sports, community events, eco-conscious organisers
- Pros: Lightweight, colourful, recyclable
- Cons: Less durable than metal, limited finish options
3. Wooden Medals
- Cost: Low to moderate
- Best for: Outdoor events, nature-themed races, rustic aesthetic
- Pros: Eco-friendly, unique texture and look
- Cons: Can chip over time, not ideal for heavy handling
Mid-Range Options
4. Die-Cast Zinc Medals (2D with Enamel)
- Cost: Moderate
- Best for: Marathons, corporate awards, national events
- Pros: Fully custom shape, enamel colours, long-lasting
- Cons: Slightly longer lead times due to custom mould creation
5. Antique-Finish Medals
- Cost: Moderate to high
- Best for: Commemorative events, service awards
- Pros: Elegant, timeless look; shows off fine detail
- Cons: Slightly more expensive due to finishing process
Premium Custom Medals
6. 3D Cast Medals
- Cost: High
- Best for: Major competitions, branded events, high-profile launches
- Pros: Sculptural detail, impressive depth and dimension
- Cons: Higher production cost and longer lead time
7. Oversized or Dual-Plated Medals
- Cost: High
- Best for: Top-tier awards, showcase events
- Pros: Eye-catching, bespoke in every detail
- Cons: Premium pricing—but worth it for maximum impact
Beware of Cheap “Custom” Medals
Some competitors advertise low custom medal prices that seem too good to be true. And often, they are.
- These medals usually come from overseas suppliers (especially in China) and may include:
- Pre-designed medal shapes with your logo printed on a sticker or insert
- Very limited customisation—no choice in size, shape, or finish
- Low-grade materials that tarnish or break easily
- No design support or collaboration
- Delays in production and shipping
- Zero flexibility or aftercare
While these might suit very tight budgets, they rarely deliver on quality or event impact. If you care about branding, presentation, or creating something truly meaningful, it’s worth investing in a proper custom process.
Why Choose MedalStudio for Custom Medals?
At MedalStudio, we believe your medals should be as unique as your event. Here’s what sets us apart:
Made and customised in Yorkshire
While we source high-quality raw materials globally, every medal is designed, cast, and finished in-house in the UK. That means faster lead times, better quality control, and a team that speaks your language.
Fully bespoke design process
We don’t just print your logo on a standard shape, we work with you to create something original. Whether you have a full brief or just an idea, our in-house design team brings it to life.
Ethical and reliable production
No shady suppliers, no cut corners. Just great medals, made by people who care.
Flexible for all budgets
Whether you’re ordering 50 or 5,000 medals, we’ll work with your budget and find the best solution, without compromising on quality.
How to Get a Custom Medal Quote
Getting a quote is simple. Just tell us:
- The type of event
- Quantity needed
- Design ideas (rough sketches or full specs welcome!)
- Preferred material or finish (if you have one)
- Deadline or event date
From there, we’ll offer suggestions that match your goals and budget. You’ll receive a no-obligation quote, and we’ll talk you through every step of the process.
Start designing your custom medal today
Updated: 03/10/2025