Best Coin Blanks for Laser Engraving

Laser engraving on coins has become a favourite technique for artists, collectors, and small businesses interested in producing personalised or commemorative tokens. Whether you're adding logos, serial numbers, intricate illustrations, or clean text, your first step is selecting the right coin blank. The material, finish, and laser compatibility all contribute to the quality, durability, and visual appeal of your final design.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common metals used for coin blanks, what to consider when selecting them, and why OMTech fiber lasers—especially the Autofocus Galvo model—are the ideal choice for engraving coin blanks with precision, speed, and lasting impact.

Common Coin Blank Materials for Laser Engraving

Brass
Brass is a popular choice due to its attractive gold-like colour, affordable price, and good contrast after engraving—especially when oxidised or darkened. Its softness also makes it easy to work with using lower-powered fiber lasers.

• Pros: Inexpensive, high contrast, traditional finish

• Cons: Prone to tarnishing if unsealed

Aluminium
Light and corrosion-resistant, aluminium is especially effective when anodised, producing crisp and clear engravings. Bare aluminium is more reflective, which may require extra preparation.

• Pros: Lightweight, durable, cost-effective

• Cons: Reflective surface may need masking or lower power

Stainless Steel
Strong and rust-resistant, stainless steel blanks are perfect for long-lasting or high-use coins. A fiber laser can produce detailed, dark engravings that hold up over time.

• Pros: Hard-wearing, clean finish, resistant to corrosion

• Cons: Requires more power or multiple passes for deep etching

Copper
With its rich red tone and conductivity, copper delivers beautiful results, especially for detailed work. Over time it may develop a patina, which can enhance or alter your design.

• Pros: Highly detailed engraving, classic appeal

• Cons: Scratches easily, oxidises unless treated

Titanium
Light but tough, titanium blanks stand out for their ability to produce colourful engravings when oxidised—shifting hues to blues, purples, and golds without additives.

• Pros: Strong yet lightweight, capable of colour marking

• Cons: Pricier, more difficult to source in large quantities

Silver & Gold
Ideal for special editions or commemorative coins, precious metals engrave beautifully thanks to their softness. However, due to cost, they’re better suited to limited runs.

• Pros: Luxury appearance, excellent engraving quality

• Cons: Expensive, softer metals need protection to avoid wear

Iron or Carbon Steel
These are widely used for budget-friendly or promotional tokens. They engrave well but are less resistant to corrosion than stainless steel, so finishing coats are often needed.

• Pros: Tough, inexpensive 

• Cons: Vulnerable to rust unless coated

Key Considerations When Choosing Coin Blanks

1. Hardness of the Metal
Softer metals like brass or aluminium are easier to engrave and ideal for intricate detail. Harder metals such as stainless steel and titanium require more powerful lasers or multiple passes.

2. Thickness
Most coin blanks fall between 1mm and 3mm thick. Thicker coins support deeper etching, which provides a more tactile and permanent result.

3. Surface Reflectivity
Highly polished metals (e.g. raw aluminium or gold) can reflect the laser beam, reducing engraving accuracy. Matte or anodised finishes absorb the beam better and offer clearer results.

4. Surface Finish
Coin blanks come in polished, brushed, or antiqued finishes. A brushed surface reduces glare and makes engraving stand out more visibly without post-processing.

5. Edge Style
Coin edges may be smooth, reeded, or milled. While not directly affected by the laser, edge finishes contribute to the professional look and feel of the final product.

Why OMTech Fiber Lasers Are Best for Coin Engraving

Engraving on metal coin blanks demands consistency, clarity, and compatibility with a wide variety of materials. OMTech fiber lasers, especially the OMTech Autofocus Galvo, are built to meet these exact needs.

Available in 20W, 30W, and 50W power options, the OMTech Autofocus Galvo features fast autofocus technology, a robust frame for industrial use, and a wide range of compatible metals. With speeds up to 10,000 mm/s, it handles both deep engravings and fine detailing with ease, whether you're working on custom one-offs or small-batch production.

Compatible materials include:

• Brass

• Aluminium

• Stainless steel

• Copper

• Titanium

• Silver and gold

• Iron and carbon steel

No matter the material, OMTech fiber lasers offer precise, repeatable results that help businesses and makers produce tokens that are both functional and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Engraved coins go beyond utility—they’re meaningful, lasting, and often artistic expressions. Choosing the right coin blank is crucial, just like selecting the right engraving machine.

With a wide range of suitable metals and creative possibilities, OMTech’s fiber laser systems—particularly the Autofocus Galvo—are the perfect match for those looking to produce premium, permanent engravings. From hobbyists crafting unique keepsakes to professionals designing brand merchandise, OMTech has the tools to bring your designs to life.

Ready to start engraving coins that make a lasting impression?
Visit OMTechLaser.uk to explore our full range of fiber laser machines and turn plain coin blanks into eye-catching works of art.