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HOW A MEDAL IS MADE ... the minting process |
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| The Minting Process |
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| Original artwork created on a computer is used for presentation purposes and as reference material by the craftsmen and artisans who produce the dies. |
Pantograph machines are used by skilled craftsmen to cut two-dimensional dies. |
Using the same hand tools and techniques employed by metal craftsmen through the centuries, engravers add depth and detail to make the image come to life. |
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| Sculptor hand carves complex dies such as portraits. A multi-step process is employed to ensure accuracy when creating the die. |
A digital image of the proof from the die is e-mailed for customer approval prior to the actual minting process. |
The approved die is hardened by heat treating. The die is subjected to temperatures above 1700 degrees for up to eight hours.
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| A blank piece of metal previously cut to the desired shape is placed into a coining press on top of the die. Up to 1000 tons of pressure are used to "strike" the image into the medal. |
Excess material is trimmed off in a trimming press. |
After cleaning, the minted piece goes through an extensive multi-step hand finishing process depending on customer wishes. Many finishing options available. |
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| The final step is a coat of jeweler's lacquer sprayed on front and back of the piece to protect it from tarnishing. |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 07 February 2008 )
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