How to draw a stylized coin

Do you know that a stylized coin is not just a round piece of metal? It can become a key element in your drawing, adding brilliance and grace to the composition. Today we will look at how to create a stylish coin in digital format. Let's get started!

Step-by-step lesson: how to draw a coin in a stylized form

Step 1: Basic circle

Let's start simple — draw a basic circle.

• Take the "Oval area" tool (or any other shape), holding down Shift to create a perfect circle.
• Fill it with a golden or silver color, depending on the chosen metal type.

Tip: Try using a slightly uneven gradient inside the circle to give the coin an interesting volume right away.

Step 2: Adding a rim

A coin without a rim is just a round pancake. Let's give it some character!

• Inside the main circle, draw another one, slightly smaller.
• Fill it with a color that is a tone darker or lighter than the base.
• This will create the effect of a protruding edge.

Trick: For more volume, add a light shadow between the rim and the main part.

Step 3: Relief pattern

At this stage, create a unique pattern or symbol for your coin:

• Draw a silhouette in the center (for example, a coat of arms, a star, or just a letter).
• Use the "Pen" tool to create neat lines.

Funny idea: Why not draw a coin with your portrait on it? A slight exaggeration of the features will add comedy.

Step 4: Light and shadows

Now it's time to add volume:

• Determine where the light is coming from.
• Add shadows to one side of the coin to show its thickness.
• Use a soft brush in "Multiply" mode for smooth transitions.

Tip: It's easy to overdo it with shadows. Start with minimal saturation and gradually increase the effect.

Step 5: Highlights and reflections

To make the coin look metallic, add highlights.

• Draw light spots on those areas that are closest to the light source.
• Use the "Overlay" or "Screen" mode for a smooth effect.

Feature: Slightly blurred highlights will make the coin's surface more realistic.

 

Step 6: Wear effect

Coins are rarely perfect — add a little "life":

• Draw small cracks, scratches, and spots.
• Use a textured brush to create a worn effect.

Tip: Add some light noise on top of the coin to mimic an antique look.

 

Step 7: Color correction

To make the coin more expressive, play with colors:

• Add a light gradient to enhance the depth.
• Adjust the saturation and contrast.

Tip: If you are drawing a silver coin, add a light bluish tint. Warm orange and brown colors are suitable for gold.

 

Step 8: Final details

The finishing touch:

• Add a thin strip of shadow under the coin to make it "break away" from the background.
• Erase unnecessary helper lines and adjust the overall brightness.

Trick: Try outlining the coin's contour with a thin line to make it look sharper on any background. Now you have a shiny, stylized coin that can decorate any composition. Don't be afraid to experiment with shapes, colors, and textures. Who knows, maybe your next project will require a whole chest of such treasures? Simple lesson for experimentation: Try drawing a coin from another material, such as wood or magical stone. Add cracks, glowing symbols, or even gems. This approach will help develop your imagination and improve your texture skills.