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Q&As since 1989


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How to make bronze medals from a model in gypsum

 

Dear Sir,

I would like to know how they make medals from a gypsum negative. I myself do the rough design first in clay, second I make a negative in gypsum. After this, I do the fine work (details, letters). I often go to Eastern Europe and there is some master who makes from this a bronze medal. I would like to read some book/leaflet/article which describes the process. I am sure that about this subject much has been written, but where to start first? I do not want to be a chemist, it interests me to know how the model can be made conductive, how dangerous it is, etc.

With friendly greetings,

Peter van Summeren
- Haarlem, The Netherlands

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The US MINT WEBPAGE-describes process most accurately. I have been searching for information on the same processes. I want to make highly detailed 3D images along with high relief text and raised text for belt buckles, keychains, medals, jewelry, etc.- The closest machines that perform these operations are a pantograph machine and CNC computer milling machines. However I have not found a manufacturing company willing to share there process with me. Any information that you can provide would be most appreciative.

Thanks,

James M Marr
- Richmond,VA, USA
 

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