One area that has been growing lately is the use of military challenge coins for museum fundraisers.  Challenge coins offer a unique way to promote a special event and increase participation.   Ideally a museum would create one side of the custom coin that would be common to all of their coins.  The other side can offer some great fundraising ideas.

 

THE FIRST 100 CLUB COIN

When a new exhibit or event opens why not offer the first 100+ people to commit to attending the opening a commemorative medallion in lieu of a ticket.  These come at a premium of course.  Gold medal attendees may get some additional accommodation like a private reception with the curator or artist.  The idea is that people will vie for these spots and even endeavor to collect these medallions.

 

THE DIRECTOR’S CLUB COIN

 

You already have a basket of items designed to motivate and award larger contributors.   One that has very high perceived value is the director’s club  (you can make up your own name) challenge coin or medallion.  Here is the key to this award.   The director is not bound by a set donation amount to award this.  Though those who make substantial contributions might get one so might the volunteer who completes a zillion hours…. Or the mayor when he visits…. or the governor when he cuts the ribbon or opens an event… or anyone else who performs a special and unique service to the museum.

 

HAVE SOME COINS FOR SALE IN THE MUSEUM OR GALLERY SHOP

 

Of course challenge coins are great sellers in the museum shop.  You can have a generic museum coin and you can have coins commemorating each special exhibit.  These should differ from your award coins and are usually less ornate.    People collect these commemorative coins or might just get one for the kids.  Custom coins are relatively inexpensive and sell at substantial markups.   (Ask us about helping you design your coin.)

 

VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION CHALLENGE COINS

 

Of course you have a volunteer pin.  Everyone has pins.  We make volunteer  100 through a whole lotta’ hour pins and would be happy to make yours.  But why not issue a challenge to your volunteers?  Make a challenge coin that they can carry to show your appreciation.  Unlike pins all we need to do to raise the award level is plate them a different metal.  Brass coins  for 500 hours all the way to gold coins for 5000 hours?   Read our earlier blog entry about the coin challenge and you can really motivate your people.  Much better than a pin and not much more investment.

 

WE ARE REALLY GOOD AT DESIGNING FOR YOUR SPECIAL COIN NEEDS

 

I love museums and galleries.  The people who make them happen are priceless to our future.  We want to see them succeed in a big way.  Our cultural future depends on you.  Call us and ask.  There is never a charge for advice.  Let us know your special needs and we will help you fulfill them whether it is through a challenge coin or some other item in our over 200,000 item offerings