How Much Should You Charge for Laser-Engraved Coins? Insights from Real Users

Laser-engraved coins, especially those using depth maps for detailed 3D effects, are undeniably impressive. But if you’re just starting out or trying to price your work, you might be wondering: “How much can I reasonably charge per coin?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Real-world experiences from multiple laser operators reveal a wide range of pricing strategies—and the key factors behind them.

1. Time Investment Matters

Many users emphasize that engraving a coin can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours per side, depending on complexity. If you’re engraving a simple design on a batch of coins, you might charge $10–$15 per coin, particularly if your goal is volume and fun rather than maximizing profit. For example, one retired hobbyist reported selling 800–1,000 military challenge coins at $10–$15 each, treating it mostly as a pastime.

If you want to get a better understanding of the cost per hour or minute of laser use, including how to calculate pricing based on machine time, check out How much do you charge per hour/minute of laser use?

However, more intricate or custom designs—especially two-sided coins using depth maps—require significantly more time and skill. In these cases, pricing can range much higher: $40–$130 per coin is not unusual. One user reported selling 50mm, 5mm deep, one-sided coins for $75–$85, and double-sided custom coins for $125–$130. For a detailed walkthrough of the coin etching process on a 60W MOPA laser, see Coin Etching Process on 60W MOPA Laser (OMG-X).

2. Customization Drives Value

The more tailored the coin, the more you can charge. Users consistently note that custom graphics, personalizations, or highly detailed depth maps justify higher prices. For example, coins made for law enforcement or correctional departments often fetch $25–$45 each, with bulk orders offering efficiency but still reflecting the designer’s skill.

Even hobbyists recognize the value of specialized work. One operator mentioned that their high-effort, artistic coins start at $60, with most closer to $80—acknowledging that it isn’t a money-making venture but a reflection of the craft. For those interested in 3D relief laser engraving, there are helpful tips and software tricks to optimize both quality and time: 3D Relief Laser Engraving: Tips and Software Tricks.

3. Consider Your Audience

Understanding your customer is critical. Coins sold to enthusiasts, collectors, or organizations with budgets for memorabilia can command higher prices. Volume buyers might expect lower prices, whereas one-off artistic pieces can justify premium pricing. One user noted that small orders might include a graphics fee, whereas larger batches waive it, reflecting economies of scale.

4. Opportunity Cost

It’s worth considering what else your laser could be doing during the same amount of time. Engraving a coin for 2 hours at $10–$15 may feel low compared to other projects—like engraving an AR-15 lower, which could bring in 10 times the profit in the same timeframe. One user bluntly stated: “It’s definitely not worth it if your goal is maximizing revenue. But for passion projects, it’s priceless.”

5. Pricing Strategies from the Community

Here’s a snapshot of what users charge in real-world scenarios:

• Basic coins for bulk orders: $15–$25 per coin.
• Custom or higher-effort coins: $40–$100, or $100+ for two-sided depth map coins.
• Organizational coins (law enforcement, corrections, military): $25–$45, often in batches of 20+.
• High-end artistic coins: $60–$130, depending on depth, detail, and size.

6. Bottom Line

There isn’t a single “correct” price. It depends on your time, skill, complexity, audience, and what else you could be doing with your laser. If you’re engraving for fun or building a portfolio, lower prices may be fine. If you’re charging for intricate, high-quality craftsmanship, don’t undervalue your time—many users agree that coins can justify a premium if they’re done right.

Ultimately, laser-engraved coins can be a rewarding creative outlet, a way to connect with a niche audience, or a profitable venture—depending on how you position them.