Abstract: A method is described for producing a stored value token which may take a coin shape. A first portion of a die is mechanically roughened, prior to striking each of a plurality of metallic substrates into a substantially planar three-dimensional form having a first side and a second side. The mechanically roughened portion of the die strikes at least the second side of the substrates, wherein a corresponding first surface portion of the second side of the stamped substrates has a less reflective matte finish. A substantially transparent coat layer such as a lacquer is applied to at least the first surface portion, and an ink layer is applied atop the first layer in the first surface portion, thereby bonding the ink layer and the first coat and generating machine readable indicia unique to each respective one of the plurality of stamped substrates.