Mintmaster Randy Kramer has opened Gem State Mint in The Resort Plaza Shops in downtown Coeur d'Alene, where he makes and sells silver medallions featuring custom Idaho designs.

"You're buying something from right here," he said. "Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase a memento of their visit to Coeur d'Alene with a true 'Made in Idaho' product out of precious metals."

One unique aspect of Gem State Mint is the ability for shoppers to watch the actual process of making a medallion, beginning with the art concept, then moving on to sculpting in plaster, die cutting on an engraving machine, and the coining of medallions on a 200-ton hydraulic press.

"You'll be able to see the entire process right there in the shop window," he says. "The engraving machine seems to fascinate people in particular."

His Augenstein engraving machine uses a method of reproduction that has existed since the 1800s, except that the work is now done electronically instead of by hand.

Kramer has more than 20 years of minting experience beginning at The Alaska Mint, a private mint in Anchorage that he helped start in 1991. He most recently worked for Sunshine Minting in Coeur d'Alene.

"I was fortunate to have acquired some engraving machines and a press the last couple of years and sought out my passion of opening my own private mint here in Coeur d'Alene focusing on the tourism industry," he said.

For Kramer, who majored in education and music at Eastern Washington University, one of the best things about the business is chatting with interested customers about the minting process.

"I just love talking with people," he said. "I'm always fascinated by where they're from, what brought them here, and our common interest in precious metals and minting."

His primary focus is creating medallions with a custom design. He will offer a variety of themes with Idaho's wildlife and history, including game animals, birds, fish, trains, steamships and Native American portraits.

He currently makes medallions in one-ounce and quarter-ounce sizes, with plans to expand the line. Kramer also has some intriguing ideas for featuring Coeur d'Alene's signature events, arts culture and attractions.

"These are keepsake pieces that fit nicely with any cause, organization or event," he said. "I welcome ideas and suggestions."

The minting process also lends itself well to making everything from divot tools to custom necklaces, belt buckles, money clips and bolo ties.

Gem State Mint is located at 210 Sherman Ave., Suite 143 in The Resort Plaza Shops. Along with medallions, shoppers will also find medallion jewelry, handcrafted bead jewelry, paintings from local artists, yard art sculptures and other gifts.

For more information, call (208) 665-6468 or find the Gem State Mint on Facebook.