Originally formed in 1917, the 48th Infantry Regiment has a storied history. During World War II, it was reorganized as the 48th Armored Infantry Battalion and assigned to the 7th Armored Division. The unit earned the nickname “Dragoons,” a term historically associated with mounted infantry and well suited to a unit known for mobility and versatility on the battlefield.
The 48th Infantry Regiment’s actions during World War II, including operations in the Rhineland and at St. Vith, became an important part of the unit’s history. The Dragoons name, coat of arms, and unit traditions continue to provide strong visual elements for commemorative military artwork.
Today, the 1st Battalion, 48th Infantry Regiment carries that history forward at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
48th Infantry Regiment Dragoons Challenge Coin
For this project, the goal was to create an Army challenge coin that closely reflected the 48th Infantry Regiment’s coat of arms and preserved the recognizable symbolism associated with the Dragoons.
Rather than using a traditional round coin, the piece was shaped around the outline of the unit’s heraldic design. The dragon dominates the front of the coin, while the reverse provides space for information connected to the regiment and its history.
Creating Detailed 3D Military Artwork
One of the more important parts of this design was reproducing the dragon with enough depth and definition to remain recognizable on the finished coin. Its curved, organic lines were sculpted with dimensional relief so the body and surrounding details would stand apart from the base metal.
Smaller elements, including the crossed rifles and lettering, also needed to remain clear despite their size. This is where manufacturing choices become particularly important. Raised and recessed metal, 3D sculpting, custom shapes, plating, and other techniques can help translate detailed military insignia into a physical coin without losing the character of the original artwork.
You can explore our challenge coin manufacturing options to see different approaches to 2D and 3D artwork, metal finishes, custom shapes, edge details, color, and other design features.
Custom Challenge Coins for Army Units
Coats of arms, distinctive unit insignia, battalion crests, aircraft, vehicles, weapons systems, mottos, deployment information, and historic imagery can all become part of a military challenge coin.
Our custom Army challenge coins page includes more information about coins created for Army units, promotions, retirements, deployments, changes of command, unit anniversaries, awards, reunions, and other military milestones.
For projects involving other branches, you can also explore our broader custom military challenge coins section.
Create a Coin Around Your Unit’s History
If your unit has a coat of arms, insignia, patch, logo, or other symbol you want represented, our artists can work from finished artwork, photographs, reference images, sketches, or a basic concept.
You can see additional completed designs in our challenge coin gallery, or request a free challenge coin quote and send us your unit information, artwork, quantity, and project details.
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