2018 President Trump Travel Challenge Coin Designs
- Renae
- Apr 24
- 14 min read
If you’ve never heard of presidential trips before, you’re in for something pretty special. These aren’t just vacations or press tours—they’re high-stakes journeys where the President represents the United States on the world stage, builds diplomacy, strengthens alliances, and tackles critical global issues. Whether it's attending summits, meeting foreign leaders, or visiting troops overseas, every detail of a presidential trip is meticulously planned and historically significant.
One of the coolest traditions tied to these trips is the creation of a special challenge coin to commemorate each one. At Challenge Design, we’ve been honored to design these presidential travel coins for several years now, capturing the unique story and symbolism of each journey. These particular coins showcase President Donald Trump’s travels from 2018—a year filled with key diplomatic moments and international engagements. For us, it’s not just about making a coin—it’s about preserving a piece of history you can hold in your hand.
2018 President Trump Travel Challenge Coins
Designing the 2018 Presidential Travel Challenge Coin meant creating a piece that would unify all of President Trump’s international trips that year—one coin to represent a year of diplomacy, summits, and global engagements. Unlike location-specific coin side, the 2018 travel side embraces a timeless, overarching design, grounded in the traditional round shape with a polished gold finish that reflects the prestige of presidential travel. The gold decorative border adds a regal touch, framing the journey of a world leader. The deep blue band encircling the coin carries the phrase Visit of the President in bold gold lettering, a phrase that marks the significance of each diplomatic mission undertaken. Decorative gold stars enhance the grandeur, evoking the sense of global leadership that comes with each presidential trip.
At the heart of the design is the geometric globe, a visual representation of the interconnected world in which these visits take place. It’s not just a background element—it signifies the role of the presidency in shaping international relations, a subtle yet profound nod to the weight of each visit. Above it, the Seal of the President of the United States stands as a powerful reminder of the authority and responsibility carried on every flight abroad. Below, the White House North Lawn is depicted in raised, etched gold, symbolizing the place from which these travels originate and the seat of American leadership.
One of the most striking features of this coin is Air Force One soaring across the sky, meticulously designed in blue and white, giving the impression of movement. It’s more than just an aircraft—it’s a symbol of diplomacy in motion, of the presidency extending beyond American borders. It represents an insider’s connection to global decision-making, to the very moments that defined U.S. diplomacy in 2018. To hold it is to hold a piece of history, a tribute to the journeys that shaped the year and the legacy of presidential travel.
Designing the 2018 Presidential Travel Challenge Coin for the U.S.-North Korea Peace Talks was an opportunity to capture a moment of historic diplomacy—one that brought two nations, once adversaries, to the negotiating table. The silver traditional round design, enclosed in a decorative silver border, represents the formality and weight of this unprecedented meeting. The raised silver text on the red band boldly declares its purpose: Peace Talks, with "United States of America" and "Democratic People's Republic of Korea" positioned on either side—two nations standing face to face in the pursuit of diplomacy. The raised silver stars add an air of prestige, reinforcing the magnitude of this event.
The white band beneath holds a powerful inscription: President Donald J. Trump – Supreme Leader Kim Jong-Un, paired with the year 2018 in both English and Korean—a small but significant detail that emphasizes mutual recognition. The decorative green olive branches encircling the text symbolize the fragile yet hopeful pursuit of peace, a visual reminder of the high stakes and aspirations behind this summit. At the coin’s core, the American and North Korean flags stand side by side, their vivid colors a striking contrast to the polished silver, representing the coming together of two nations despite decades of division.
But perhaps the most defining element of this coin is the raised, etched side-profile images of President Trump and Kim Jong-Un, facing forward in a moment frozen in time. Their presence at the center of the design speaks to the personal diplomacy that shaped these talks—two leaders, vastly different, yet sharing a singular moment in history. For those who wish they had received this coin, it is more than just a collectible; it is a symbol of being close to history in the making, of witnessing an event that could reshape the course of global relations. This coin is a testament to the bold steps taken toward diplomacy, a rare artifact of an encounter that once seemed impossible.
2018 Peru - Summit of Americas
Canceled
The 2018 Summit of the Americas Peru Challenge Coin is a reflection of diplomacy and international cooperation, carefully crafted to honor President Trump's participation in this pivotal gathering. The traditional round, shiny gold finish was chosen deliberately—it represents the prestige of a presidential visit while echoing the unity and purpose of the Summit itself. The gold decorative border gives the coin a timeless elegance, framing the significance of the event. Around the edge, the deep black band with raised gold lettering boldly states Summit of the Americas Peru 2018, accented with decorative gold stars, reinforcing the importance of this moment in U.S.-Latin American relations.
At the core of the design, the colors of the Peruvian flag take center stage—a white middle with red stripes flanking either side—a direct tribute to the host nation. The Peruvian Coat of Arms, etched in full color at the top, is a striking detail, showcasing Peru’s rich heritage and its role as the summit’s host. This emblem, with its bold imagery of the vicuña, cinchona tree, and cornucopia spilling gold coins, is a fitting nod to the themes of economic prosperity and political cooperation that shaped the discussions.
To the lower left, the official 2018 Summit of the Americas logo, featuring a rainbow-striped depiction of North and South America, brings vibrancy to the coin, signifying the diversity and unity of the Western Hemisphere. On the right side, the text ‘VIII Summit of the Americas, Lima, Peru, 2018’ is displayed prominently, grounding the coin in history. For those who wish they had received this piece, it represents more than just a presidential trip—it’s a rare marker of a key diplomatic event, a tangible piece of history from a summit that shaped regional dialogue. Holding this coin is like holding a snapshot of U.S. leadership on the global stage, a reminder of the efforts to strengthen ties across the Americas.
2018 Mar-a-lago Palm Beach, Florida
The 2018 Mar-a-Lago Presidential Travel Challenge Coin is a striking piece that captures the elegance and significance of one of President Trump’s most well-known retreats. Crafted in silver with a gold outer border, this coin radiates prestige while maintaining a refined, classic appeal. The vivid blue band encircling the design is adorned with decorative stars, framing the top with Mar-A-Lago and the bottom with Palm Beach, Florida. These elements aren’t just decorative—they emphasize the location’s stature as the Winter White House, where diplomacy, strategy, and presidential decision-making unfolded.
At the heart of the coin lies a detailed silver-etched depiction of the Mar-a-Lago estate, capturing its Spanish Mediterranean architecture in stunning relief. The outer silver border provides a distinguished contrast, drawing attention to the presidential motorcade centerpiece—The Beast, parked prominently in front of the estate. This isn’t just any car; it’s a symbol of presidential security and power, making its presence on the coin a nod to the weight of the decisions made within those very walls.
Above, a bright blue sky with soft white clouds breathes life into the scene, creating a sense of openness and grandeur that mirrors Mar-a-Lago’s oceanfront beauty. For those who wish they could have received this coin, it represents more than just a place—it’s a symbol of presidential influence, exclusive gatherings, and the blending of diplomacy with personal retreat. Holding this coin is like holding a piece of history, a glimpse into the setting where some of the most defining moments of 2018 took shape.
2018- Trump Tower - Bedminister, New Jersey
The 2018 Bedminster, New Jersey Presidential Travel Challenge Coin is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of President Trump’s most frequented retreats. Designed in a shiny gold finish, this traditional round coin carries a sense of prestige and exclusivity. The gold outer border frames the design elegantly, leading to a deep blue band with raised gold text that reads Trump Tower across the top and Bedminster across the bottom, with decorative gold stars adding a touch of refinement. This coin isn’t just a keepsake—it’s a reflection of two key locations in the president’s travels.
Moving inward, a gold band encircles the center, marking the geographical significance of this journey with New York, NY at the top and Bedminster TWP., NJ at the bottom. Small gold plaques on the left and right display the year 2018, anchoring the design in its historical context. The true artistry of the coin, however, lies in its center composition, where a blue line divides the space—a symbolic representation of Route 78, the very path that connects New York City to Bedminster, New Jersey. This design choice transforms the coin into more than a static emblem; it becomes a visual journey between two significant presidential locations.
The upper half of the center pays tribute to New York, with gold-etched buildings, the Statue of Liberty, and the official seal of New York State, symbolizing the towering presence of Trump Tower and the city that shaped much of his legacy. The lower half shifts to Bedminster Township, New Jersey, featuring a detailed gold-etched representation of the area, accompanied by the New Jersey state seal—a nod to the presidential retreat’s importance. It represents more than just a trip; it’s a symbol of the places where decisions were made, strategies were crafted, and history unfolded. Holding this coin is like holding a bridge between two worlds—one of power, one of retreat, but both integral to the presidency.
January 2018 - World Economic Forum Davos Switzerland
Designing the 2018 Presidential Travel Challenge Coin for the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland required us to capture the weight of global leadership in a single, masterfully crafted piece. The dual-plated gold and silver finish immediately sets this coin apart, reflecting both prestige and the balance of diplomacy. The dark blue outer band, adorned with gold decorative stars, frames the moment in time with the engraved text "January 2018 – Davos, Switzerland," grounding this coin in the exclusive setting where world leaders converged to address a divided global landscape.
At the heart of the design, the silver-etched image of the Congress Centre, Davos, stands as a focal point, an architectural symbol of where influential discussions took place. Behind it, the Swiss Alps rise in striking detail, a nod to the grandeur and permanence of the setting. But what truly sets this coin apart is the sky itself—an artistic integration of the flag of Davos, Switzerland, a bold statement that ties this piece not only to the event but to the very spirit of its host city. Floating above, the World Economic Forum logo in crisp white lettering serves as a reminder of the ambitious theme that shaped the discussions: "Creating a Shared Future in a Fractured World."
It signifies proximity to power, to critical decision-making, to the global elite shaping the future. This is not just a collector’s piece; it’s a symbol of influence, strategy, and high-stakes diplomacy. Holding it is a reminder of being in the room where world-changing conversations unfolded, a tangible link to a moment in time where the world's most powerful voices sought to mend divisions and forge new paths forward.
Check back for the Complete World Economic Forum Travel Collection.
June 2018 Quebec Canada- G7
Designing the 2018 G7 Summit challenge coin was all about balancing tradition with the distinct identity of this historic gathering in La Malbaie, Quebec, Canada. The antique gold finish gives the coin a refined elegance, while the decorative gold-etched border adds a layer of craftsmanship that reflects the prestige of the summit itself. The dark blue outer band, with its raised gold lettering, proudly displays the name of the iconic Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, the grand host venue nestled along the St. Lawrence River. Accented by two gold maple leaves on each side, this frame immediately ties the coin to Canada’s role as the summit’s host and its deep-rooted national pride.
At the center, the red border creates a striking contrast, drawing attention to the etched rendition of the Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu—a structure as dignified as the world leaders who gathered there. The bold black text announcing the 44th G7 Summit and its June 2018 date ensures that this moment in diplomatic history is permanently etched in time. Above, the divided top section tells a story in itself. On the left, the Canadian flag stands strong, with its red maple leaf outlined in gold, reinforcing Canada’s leadership in hosting this global event. On the right, the official G7 Charlevoix logo—a gold and black stylized depiction of mountains, water, and trees—symbolizes both the natural beauty of the region and the complex international discussions that unfolded there.
It represents a symbol of access, influence, and the gravity of global leadership. This coin is a reminder of closed-door conversations, handshake diplomacy, and the shaping of economic and security policies that ripple across the world. It’s a piece of history, encapsulated in gold, held only by those who were there when the world’s most powerful leaders came together in Charlevoix.
Check back for the Complete G7 Travel Collection.
July 2018 Helsinki, Finland White House Kremlin Summit
The 2018 Kremlin Summit – Helsinki Challenge Coin is a striking representation of one of the most closely watched diplomatic meetings of the Trump presidency. Designed with antique gold plating, this traditional round coin carries a sense of history, weight, and significance. The etched decorative border lends a refined, classic touch, emphasizing the gravity of the moment it commemorates. Encircling the coin, the dark navy band features raised gold lettering, displaying the names of President Donald J. Trump on the left and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the right—marking the leaders at the center of this high-stakes summit.
A thin red band transitions into a cream-colored section, where the text United States of America and Russian Federation appears in white lettering, subtly reinforcing the bilateral nature of the meeting. At the top, "Helsinki, Finland" is presented in bold navy, grounding the event in its historic location. The bottom features two navy banners with gold text, reading White House Kremlin Summit in both English and Russian—a detail that underscores the effort to bridge two global powers in discussion. These layers of design, with their careful balance of color and symbolism, ensure that every detail speaks to the momentous occasion.
At the heart of the coin, the American and Russian flags stand boldly in high color fill, positioned behind a raised, detailed depiction of Helsinki Cathedral—one of Finland’s most iconic landmarks. This imagery serves as a powerful metaphor: a backdrop of history and diplomacy, where two nations met at a crossroads. It embodies a rare and symbolic moment in international relations. Holding this coin is like holding a piece of history—a reminder of the delicate balance of diplomacy, strategy, and global leadership that played out on the world stage.
Sept 2018 - New York- United Nations
Designing this 2018 UN General Assembly challenge coin was about capturing the diplomatic gravity of the moment while staying true to the tradition of presidential travel coins. The antique gold finish gives the coin a timeless presence, symbolizing the enduring role of the United Nations in global affairs. The outer dark blue ring, with its elegant "New York - New York" engraving, is a nod to the city that has hosted world leaders for decades, setting the stage for historic speeches and negotiations. Inside, the light blue band provides a striking contrast, framing the United Nations Headquarters—a powerful centerpiece that represents the global community’s commitment to diplomacy, security, and international cooperation.
But it’s the fine details that truly make this coin stand out. The high-color American flag at the top serves as a bold reminder of the United States' leadership on the world stage, while the silver UN emblem on a blue background anchors the design in the institution's core mission of peace and unity. For those who understand the weight of this moment—whether they were part of the delegation, worked behind the scenes, or followed the proceedings closely—this coin is more than just a memento. It’s a symbol of presence, a tangible connection to a gathering where global priorities were shaped. This coin represents a place at the table, a moment in time where history was made, and a legacy that continues long after the assembly adjourned.
Check back for the Complete UN General Assembly Travel Collection.
November 2018 - France Armistice Day
The 2018 France Armistice Day Presidential Travel Challenge Coin is a solemn and powerful tribute to the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, commemorating those who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I. Designed in antique gold, the coin carries a sense of timeless reverence, mirroring the historic significance of the occasion. The outer decorative etched border frames the design with elegance, while the green band with gold text reading Visit of the President is accompanied by gold decorative stars, evoking both honor and remembrance.
A bold black band encircles the center, its gold lettering marking President Donald J. Trump’s role in commemorating this historic milestone. This contrast of black and gold speaks to the weight of the moment—both a somber reflection and a commitment to never forgetting. The centerpiece of the coin is a striking gold-etched depiction of the Somme American Cemetery, its cross-shaped headstones standing in solemn rows, a tribute to the thousands of American soldiers who rest there. The design captures the quiet dignity of the site, reminding us of the immense cost of war and the enduring bond between the United States and France.
At the bottom, a long, gracefully waving banner carries the inscription: Somme American Cemetery, Bony, France – Nov. 11th, 2018. This element not only anchors the design but also symbolizes the passage of time, the resilience of memory, and the enduring legacy of those who fought for peace. It embodies a moment of history, a deep reverence for sacrifice, and a reminder that remembrance is our responsibility. Holding this coin is holding a piece of gratitude, a piece of history, and a solemn promise to never forget.
Nov 2018 G20 Buenos Aires Brazil
There’s something special about a presidential travel coin, and this G20 Summit Buenos Aires challenge coin is no exception. As designers, we knew this coin had to reflect not only the significance of President Trump’s participation in the 2018 G20 Summit but also the rich culture and diplomatic spirit of Argentina. The thin dark blue border provides a refined contrast to the gold decorative stars, evoking a sense of prestige and international unity. The orange-gold ring adds warmth and depth, complementing the gold Casa Rosada building, a symbol of Argentina’s leadership and history. Every detail was chosen to represent a global conversation about fairness and sustainable development while honoring the tradition of presidential challenge coins as exclusive keepsakes of history in the making.
For those who understand the significance of this piece—whether they were part of the delegation, contributed behind the scenes, or simply recognize its importance—this coin represents more than a moment. It’s a marker of history, a reminder of the diplomacy, leadership, and negotiations that shape the world stage. Holding this coin in your hands is like holding a piece of that history, a connection to a high-stakes summit where global leaders met to define the future. And for those who wish they had one, it’s a testament to the importance of being part of something bigger—an acknowledgment that these moments matter, and that those who carry these coins were there to witness and shape them.
Columbia
Canceled Trip
The 2018 Colombia Presidential Travel Challenge Coin stands as a unique artifact—a symbol of diplomacy and international relations that almost were. Though President Donald Trump’s planned trip to Colombia was ultimately canceled, this coin captures the spirit of the intended visit, preserving the significance of the moment in a way that only a challenge coin can. The outer gold border gives the coin a distinguished look, framing the vivid blue band adorned with decorative stars. At the top, the year 2018 is boldly displayed, while Colombia is inscribed at the bottom, reinforcing the trip’s original destination.
At the heart of the design is the vibrant Colombian flag, a nod to the country’s rich history and dynamic future. Positioned proudly above it is the emblematic Coat of Arms of Colombia, a powerful symbol representing the nation’s sovereignty, its abundant resources, and its pursuit of peace. This crest, with its iconic condor and golden pomegranate, reflects Colombia’s identity on the global stage, emphasizing the significance of U.S.-Colombia relations. Even though the visit itself did not take place, this coin remains a testament to the ongoing partnership and diplomatic efforts between the two nations.
Grounding the design at the bottom is a raised gold-etched depiction of the Casa de Nariño, the official residence and principal workplace of the President of Colombia. This architectural masterpiece, rich in historical significance, serves as the seat of leadership in Bogotá. Including it in the coin’s design speaks to the importance of strong international ties, shared democratic values, and the ongoing dialogue between world leaders. It represents more than just a canceled visit—it is a reminder of what could have been, what still remains, and the enduring connections between nations even when plans change.
These coins are a front-row seat to history, cast in metal and designed with intention. At Challenge Design, these aren’t just coins to us—they’re chapters in a living archive, a way to trace the footsteps of power across the globe. We still remember the quiet hum of the design room when the Davos piece came together—the alpine silhouette coming into focus, the flag catching the wind just right in a sky of silver and blue. Every line, every finish, every detail was chosen to echo the gravity of the moment. And that’s the magic of what we do. We don’t just make coins—we tell stories of diplomacy, grit, and legacy through the language of design. So whether these coins end up in a velvet-lined drawer, a glass case, or the palm of someone who was there, they will always carry the weight of where the President went, what the world watched, and what history remembers.
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