A Ride Through Time: Challenge Coin Design Meets President's Transportation.
- Admin
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
We love a good coin project. But some? Some are so rich in history, purpose, and quiet power that they stop you in your tracks. That was the case when we got the call to design for the White House Transportation Agency. Presidential ground transportation is more than sleek cars and polished emblems—it’s legacy on wheels. And we couldn’t wait to bring that story to life.
There’s just something awe-inspiring about presidential ground transportation. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about presence, protection, and symbolism. These vehicles aren’t just cars; they’re rolling fortresses, diplomatic statements on wheels, and mobile command centers. They carry the leader of the free world, after all! From the gleam of polished chrome to the silent hum of high-tech armor underneath, every element is designed with purpose. And when you see that motorcade glide by—black SUVs in formation, motorcycle outriders, flags flapping—it gives you goosebumps. It’s security. It’s power. It’s history in motion.
Behind the scenes, the White House Transportation Agency (WHTA) is the unsung hero making it all happen. This elite group within the White House Military Office handles the logistics, safety, and precision that every presidential movement requires. From secure sedans to bulletproof limousines, the WHTA ensures that every ride is smooth, safe, and state-ready. They’re the quiet professionals, operating with clockwork precision, always in motion but rarely in the spotlight.
Now, rewind the story a bit—to 1909—and meet the first official presidential car: a steam-powered open-top Model T. It was revolutionary for its time and more than a little daring. No roof. No armor. Just polished brass, white-rimmed wheels, and a whole lot of nerve. President William Howard Taft embraced the automobile age by becoming the first commander-in-chief to use cars instead of carriages—and that moment shifted everything. That first car was both a leap into modernity and a statement of confidence in American innovation. It wasn’t just a ride—it was a milestone.
And when it comes to coin design? All of this context matters. When we design a challenge coin that nods to presidential vehicles or honors the White House Transportation Agency, we don’t just sketch a car. We embed history. We capture legacy. Every line, shine, and symbol is chosen to reflect not just what the vehicle looks like—but what it means. It's not about the horsepower. It's about the heritage.
WHCA President's Transportation Challenge Coin
Oh, this one was special—and not just because we got to shape a coin like a car (which, let’s be honest, is every designer’s dream). This project for the White House Transportation Agency had legacy written all over it—literally and symbolically. When we were asked to design a coin that paid tribute to the very first presidential vehicle, we knew we weren’t just designing a token—we were honoring the beginning of a century-long story of movement, service, and evolution. So we got to work—and shaped this coin into the unmistakable silhouette of a Revolutionary Model T Open-Top Steam-Driven Limousine.
Let’s talk details: the coin’s custom-cut shape mirrors the iconic Ford Model T chassis—those graceful curves and tall wheels you just don’t see anymore. We gave it a shiny gold finish to capture the elegance of early 20th-century craftsmanship, echoing the polished brass fittings and round headlamps of the original car. Look closer, and you’ll spot the deep embossing of spoked wheels, the folded canopy frame, and even the plush, high-backed seats in the open passenger compartment. The body panels shine with the visual depth of the Model T’s deep green paint, while the fenders sweep like they’re ready to glide down Pennsylvania Avenue in 1909. It’s nostalgic, regal, and full of quiet power.
Then there’s the reverse side—which might be one of our proudest layouts to date. It features a high-res textured image of the White House North Lawn, detailed down to the landscaping, with several presidential vehicles across eras in formation. Above it all is the inscription: “Est. 1909 — President Taft to Present — ‘On Your Way.’” It’s a nod to where it started, how far we’ve come, and the people behind the wheel—literally and metaphorically—who made it happen. From steam to satellite nav, it all started with that one open-top car.
And here’s where the storytelling hits home: not everyone gets to ride in a presidential vehicle—but with this coin, you hold that legacy in your hand. For those who keep the wheels turning behind the scenes—the mechanics, drivers, coordinators—this coin is a thank-you, a keepsake, and a nod to a history they’re a part of every single day. Our goal? Make something that felt worthy of that legacy. Not flashy. Foundational. Because if you know, you know: transportation at this level isn’t just about movement—it’s about mission.
In the end, this coin isn’t just about the Model T, or the White House lawn, or even President Taft. It’s about the people who keep America moving—quietly, carefully, and with the weight of history in every turn of the key. Designing this coin reminded us that when form meets function with heart, you don’t just make a keepsake. You make a statement.
Capturing History One Challenge Coin At A Time.
Contact us today to start creating your own piece of history.
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