THE PROCESS

THE PROCESS AT A GLANCE

1. Concept & Idea
Your vision becomes the blueprint — from a simple idea to a detailed design.

2. Art & Design
Artists draft and refine, then convert artwork into precise 3D models.

3. Sculpture & Relief
Digital files are prepared for production and archived for repeatability.

4. Engraving
State-of-the-art laser engraving cuts every detail with 2µm precision.

5. Finishing
Expert polishing perfects the die surface — bullion, circulating, or proof.

6. Ready for Striking
The completed die is press-ready, built to mint with unmatched accuracy.

THE DETAILS...

HISTORY

For thousands of years, the fundamentals of minting have remained the same—an idea struck into metal to create something lasting. At DIE VAULT, we honor that ancient heritage while working with the most advanced die-cutting equipment available today—the same trusted by many government mints. Every die we produce balances tradition with innovation.

CONCEPT & IDEA

Every project begins with a vision. Whether you arrive with detailed artwork or only a spark of inspiration, our specialists work alongside you to shape that idea into a practical and striking design—optimized for the size, relief, and character of the finished coin, token, or medallion.

ART & DESIGN

Once the concept is defined, our artists draft an initial design for review and approval. After refinement, the artwork is transformed into a 3D model using advanced vector and relief software. This digital sculpture captures every nuance and prepares the design for precision engraving.

SCULPTURE & RELIEF

The 3D model becomes the foundation of production. It is processed through specialized software that communicates directly with our laser engraving systems. This file is also archived for future use, ensuring your design can be recreated with exacting consistency whenever needed.

ENGRAVING

Using state-of-the-art laser digitizing technology, we engrave each die with near-microscopic precision. The laser removes material layer by layer in a controlled process, revealing the design in stunning detail. Complex textures, fine reliefs, and sharp edges are cut with accuracy measured to within 2 microns.

For a standard 39mm coining die, the engraving process takes 10–12 hours to complete. The result is a die that faithfully reflects the original vision with unmatched clarity and repeatability.

FINISHING

Once engraved, each die undergoes meticulous finishing under magnification. Skilled hands remove vaporized residue, polish away micro-scratches, and perfect the die’s surface to meet its intended purpose.

  • Circulating, uncirculated, and bullion dies are prepared for immediate press use.

  • Proof and specialty dies receive additional treatments to achieve flawless mirror fields and crisp frosted devices.

Every stage of finishing ensures the die not only meets but exceeds professional minting standards—crafted with the pride of U.S.A. workmanship and over a decade of die-making expertise.