Coin Rings: How to Make Them + Top Tips

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The story goes that people started making coin rings during hard times, though coin jewelry dates back to ancient Egypt. These days, coin rings are patriotic symbols, travel souvenirs, commemorative jewelry for meaningful dates, and more. You can even display pride in your home state with any commemorative quarter. One of my friends is using coin rings for her wedding bands this summer because she likes the idea of repurposing vintage coins, with all their history and patina. She’s enjoying the process of finding the perfect coins as symbols of their commitment.

In case you’re concerned about the legality of using United States coins, think of the technique in the same category as pressed pennies. Changing a coin is not illegal in the US unless it is altered in order to commit fraud. Because neither alteration method is attempting to commit fraud, coin rings and pressed pennies are not illegal. Other countries may have different rules so be sure to do your research before you start making a ring.

Size, material, and decoration are a few factors to consider when choosing a coin for your ring. | Photo courtesy of Studio JSD

Steps for Making Coin Rings

There are various methods, and many tools to make the process easier, but the basic steps are the same:

1

Punch a large hole in the center of the coin.

2

Anneal the coin and use a dapping block or similar to dome the coin.

3

Place the coin onto a steel ring mandrel and hammer it to work it to the desired shape.

4

Continue annealing and shaping the ring until it reaches the desired size.

5

File any rough edges, polish the ring, and seal it if necessary.

Finishing a coin ring — Finish your ring carefully, removing any burrs without affecting the surface details. | Photo courtesy of Studio JSD

Tips for Success

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Since the center will be punched out, choose a coin that has some interesting details along the outside edge.

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Quarters and half-dollars are typically used because they’re the right size for rings that fit most people.

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Practice on newer coins before metalsmithing with more valuable vintage coins.

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Coins made before 1966 have higher amounts of silver in their composition and are more sought-after for making rings.

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If you use a copper or brass, consider adding a sealant to the finished ring to prevent skin irritation.

A stack of coin rings and coins — Stacked rings made from coins. Many people choose to engrave the inside surface of their rings for further personalization. | Photo courtesy of Studio JSD

Jeweler Zac Tedrow advises, “Choosing the right coin is important! Size, metal content, and the details on the coin itself all play a factor in the finished product. Do a little research on the coins you plan to use, and practice on some common coins before you commit to making a ring out of one that holds high sentimental or monetary value. Accessibility to certain tools can also pose a challenge. You can buy specific tool kits that take a lot of the guesswork out of making coin rings, or you can use the jewelry tools you may already have on hand for a more craftsmanlike approach. There are many ways to end up with a fantastic coin ring, so try not to limit yourself to a single process.”

Using quarters, half dollars, and other coins to create rings is a unique and creative way to showcase your personal style. With their distinctive designs and historical significance, coins offer intriguing possibilities for crafting handmade jewelry. You might find that the perfect coins are languishing in your coin jar or somewhere else around your home. Whether you’re looking for a casual accessory or a statement piece, coin rings are compelling works of jewelry art.

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