The difference
A die struck pin is struck from brass or copper and finished with plating, often with a sandblasted texture or antique finish to create contrast. An enamel pin is struck the same way, then the recessed areas are filled with colored enamel.
Comparison
| Item | Die struck | Enamel (soft or hard) |
|---|---|---|
| Color | None (metal only) | Up to up to 8 colors included |
| Look | Formal, timeless, heritage | Bright, branded, playful or polished |
| Fine text | Reads well, down to 1.2 mm | Needs about 1.5 mm |
| Durability | Excellent | Very good (hard enamel excellent) |
| Price | About 5% less than soft enamel | Baseline to +10% |
When die struck is the better choice
- Seals, crests and emblems that work in one color
- Service, retirement and membership pins
- Military, police and fire department pins
- Formal occasions where color would feel loud
When enamel is the better choice
- Logos that depend on brand colors
- Mascots, characters and illustrations
- Trading pins and event pins that need to stand out
- Awareness ribbons and anything color-coded
A middle ground
A die struck pin can have a single color fill or black dye in the recesses for contrast, and enamel pins can leave large areas as bare metal. Ask for both on the quote form and compare proofs. See die struck pins for finishes and prices.
How each ages
Die struck pins age gracefully. Antique finishes darken a little over time, which adds character, and there is no enamel to chip or fade. Enamel pins keep their color for decades if cared for; hard enamel resists wear best. Both are pins people keep for a lifetime.
How each photographs
Die struck pins rely on light and shadow, so they photograph best with a single light at an angle. Enamel pins photograph well in even light, and their colors carry the image online.
Combining the two in one program
Many organizations use both: die struck pins for formal milestones and enamel pins for everyday recognition. A department might issue a die struck gold pin for 25 years of service and a colorful soft enamel pin for a safety record. Using the same outline for both ties the program together. See years of service pins and employee recognition pins.
Price example
At 200 pieces and 1 inch: die struck $2.28, soft enamel $2.40, hard enamel $2.64 per pin, delivered.
Written by the Enamelore team, who proof every order. Questions about this guide? Email hello@enamelore.com.
