What Are Die Struck Pins?
Die struck pins are custom lapel pins made entirely from metal — no enamel color fill at all. The design is created by stamping (striking) a metal sheet with a hardened steel die, which raises certain areas and recesses others. Sandblasting is then applied to the recessed areas to create contrast between the polished raised surfaces and the matte background.
The result is a clean, classic, all-metal pin with a timeless look.
When to Choose Die Struck
Die struck pins are the right choice when you want an understated, elegant appearance. Without color, the design relies entirely on the interplay between polished and textured metal — which gives these pins a sophisticated, formal quality that color pins don't always achieve.
They're especially popular for:
- Military and veterans' organizations — die struck pins match the tradition and formality these groups expect
- Government agencies — professional and dignified
- Corporate recognition — subtle branding for employee milestones or executive gifts
- Memorial and commemorative pins — the all-metal finish conveys respect and permanence
Design Considerations
Because there's no color to differentiate elements, die struck designs work best when the artwork has clear, bold lines and distinct areas of raised vs. recessed metal. Fine text and intricate details are absolutely possible — the die-striking process captures impressive detail — but the design should have enough contrast to read well at pin size.
Our design team provides free artwork services and can help adapt your logo or concept into a design that looks great in die struck metal.
Specifications
- Minimum order: 100 pieces
- Production time: 7–10 business days
- Plating options: High polished gold, silver, copper, black nickel, antique finishes, and dual plating
- Attachment options: Rubber clutch, butterfly clutch, magnetic back, safety pin, and more
- Includes: Free artwork and free priority air shipping to the US
Want Color Too?
If you like the die struck metal look but want to add some color to parts of the design, consider soft enamel pins — they use the same die-struck base with color enamel added to selected areas.