[CNC Masterclass] Carving History: Machining a Brass Napoleon Coin with MAXMAKE HiMill D1S 🦅
21 May 2026
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![[CNC Masterclass] Carving History: Machining a Brass Napoleon Coin with MAXMAKE HiMill D1S 🦅](http://maxmake.com/cdn/shop/articles/maxmake-himill-d1s-brass-napoleon-coin-cnc-project_e9facca2-f703-4133-9334-b2a2bbdc51ac_1100x.webp?v=1779680974)
Who says desktop CNC is only for basic parts? Today, we are taking precision brass engraving to the next level by machining a stunning replica of a Napoleon commemorative coin.
We're turning cold metal into a piece of history that spans centuries, where every single toolpath pays homage to craftsmanship and micron-level precision. Let's dive into the parameters!
🦅 I. Project Overview
Project Name DIY Napoleon-Themed Brass Coin
Equipment Used HiMill D1S Desktop CNC
Core Principles High-Precision Brass Relief Carving + Post-Processing
Applications Desktop Collectible, Custom Accessory, Personalized Keepsake
Difficulty ★★★★☆ (Advanced: Requires toolpath optimization)
Cycle Time Approx. 4 Hours
🎨 II. Prep & Design
The core of coin replication lies in "detail reproduction + material stability." Planning your layout and tool selection ahead of time will double your efficiency.
1. Materials List:
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Brass Blank: 60x60x3.5mm solid brass plate.
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Polishing Supplies: Assorted sandpaper (400-2000 grit), brass polishing compound, buffing pads.
2. Essential Tooling:
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2.5mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill: Dedicated to brass roughing and material clearance.
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0.2mm Flat Bottom Engraving Bit: Used for ultra-fine relief detailing.
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3.175mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill: Used for the final outer profile cut.
⚙️ III. CAM Strategy (Machining Parameters)
A universal parameter set adapts to both relief and profile machining. With minor tweaks for detail reproduction, even beginners can easily master this.
1. Brass Roughing:
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Tool: 2.5mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill
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Stepover: 1 mm
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Stepdown: 0.2 mm
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Cutting Feed Rate: 200 mm/min
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Plunge Feed Rate: 100 mm/min
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Spindle Speed: 13,000 RPM
2. Brass Finishing (Relief Details):
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Tool: 0.2mm Flat Bottom Engraving Bit
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Stepover: 0.1 mm
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Stepdown: 0.2 mm
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Cutting Feed Rate: 200 mm/min
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Plunge Feed Rate: 100 mm/min
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Spindle Speed: 13,000 RPM
3. Outer Profile Cutting:
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Tool: 3.175mm Single Flute Spiral End Mill
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Stepover: 1 mm
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Stepdown: 0.2 mm
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Cutting & Plunge Feed Rate: 200 mm/min & 100 mm/min
🛠️ IV. Machining Process
The high-precision spindle and stable positioning of the HiMill D1S ensure micron-level accuracy when reproducing relief details.
1.
Workholding & Calibration: Firmly secure the brass plate to the wasteboard using double-sided tape, assisted by edge stops to prevent shifting during machining.
2.
Roughing (Material Removal): Use the 2.5mm single flute end mill to clear the bulk material and define the basic circular shape of the coin.
3.
Relief Finishing: Swap to the 0.2mm ultra-fine flat bottom engraving bit to reproduce the Napoleon eagle crest, laurel wreaths, and lettering. The lines come out crisp and burr-free, laying a perfect foundation for polishing.
4.
Outer Profile Cutoff: Finally, use the 3.175mm end mill to cut out the overall outer contour.
✨ V. Post-Processing & Assembly
A standardized post-processing routine perfectly balances the historical feel with the premium metallic texture.
1.
Deburring: Use 400-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges of the coin and remove machining marks. Progress to 800-1200 grit to refine the finish and eliminate sharp burrs.
2.
Cleaning: Wipe the surface with alcohol to remove residual chips and cutting oils.
3.
Polishing (Optional): Apply brass polishing compound with a soft cloth to buff the piece and elevate its texture.
4.
Detail Refinement: Use a fine needle to clear any polishing residue trapped in the relief pockets, ensuring every letter and pattern remains crisp and three-dimensional.
📸 VI. Final Showcase: A Coin, A Piece of History
When a raw brass blank is reborn through precision CNC carving, the Napoleon-themed commemorative coin reveals a texture that transcends centuries:
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Eagle Crest Relief: The feather textures on the wings are clearly visible, and the lines are sharp and powerful, restoring the majesty of the imperial emblem.
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Lettering Reproduction: The depth of the edge lettering and year digits is perfectly consistent. Every character is replicated flawlessly without blurring or distortion.
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Retro Patina: The polished brass naturally emits a soft glow. Paired with a distressed finish, it carries the heft of metal while retaining the warmth of handcrafted art.
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Versatile Use Cases: It serves perfectly as a desk display, journal decor, or even a customized keychain. Every detail tells a historical story.
💡 HiMill D1S Review:
This coin replication project once again proves the "all-rounder" capability of the HiMill D1S:
1.
Detail Reproduction Stability: Excellent repeatability. The relief depth and line thickness remain perfectly consistent, requiring zero recalibration.
2.
Machining Ceiling: From delicate feather textures to crisp lettering, the machine perfectly replicates the minutest details with high surface finish and zero blurring.
3.
Limitless Creativity: As long as you can design it, the D1S can turn it into a physical brass coin. Whether it's historical themes, personal IP, or original designs, it unlocks endless possibilities!
📥 Get the Files
Challenge your machine's precision—download the design files now!
Download via Google Drive
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