MAKING CONCHOS

[Major 2]

   
You need a base that will support the edge of the coin while the center is pressed down. In one of those cosmic coincidences, it turns out that the outer race from an old Harley wheel bearing is just right. Center the coin on the race, then press the center down as far as you want.
It's a piece of cake with a shop press. You could probably do it with a hammer, too, but better with a press.
Depending on the shape and diameter of the end of the ram on your press you might need to put a nut or something on the center of the coin to concentrate the force there.
You probably ought to anneal the coin first; I cracked a couple out of the first half-dozen I made. They get work-hardened when they're stamped, I guess, so soften 'em up.
Then get out your propane torch and silver solder either a stud or a bar to the back.
A bar, soldered at each end while laying across the coin, gives you something to run a thong behind to lash it on to something.
You could also use , a wire twist , wood screw ( for saddles ) or a Chicago screw.

[Travis Morgan]

JB weld works well for attaching backs to the concho.

[Marshal Will Wingam]

I've made a few by supporting them with a block of hard wood with a hole drilled in it. I place a 1 1/2" steel ball bearing in the center and whack it with a composite dead blow hammer. You could do the same with a ball-peen hammer and whack that with a composite dead blow hammer. Don't hit one steel hammer with another steel one or you could loose an eye from a chip flying off one of the hammers.

[outrider]

Marshal:

I learned that about thirty years ago.  Hit two hammers together and ended up having a 1/4" piece of hammer removed from the knucle of my thumb.  I still have a scar and a soft spot on that knuckle.