Aztec Cursed Gold Coin — Rotating Edition

Aztec Cursed Gold Coin — Rotating Edition

This model is a mechanical reinterpretation of my earlier Aztec Cursed Gold Coin. Ever since creating the original version, I kept wondering: what if the coin could actually move?

This edition brings that idea to life. The outer ring of the coin can rotate around the central skull core, turning a static prop into a small, tactile mechanical object.

Unlike a bearing-based spinner, this design relies purely on printed geometry and clearances. The central core is locked inside the outer ring during assembly, but a carefully designed gap allows free rotation between the parts.

🧩 Model Structure

The model consists of four parts:

• two halves of the central core
• two halves of the outer ring

The parts must be assembled and glued. Once assembled correctly, the core is permanently captured inside the ring and can rotate but cannot fall out.

This rotating version is based on my original Aztec Cursed Gold Coin model — you can find the static edition here: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2071069-aztec-cursed-gold-coin-fan-made
 

Assembly Instructions

The model consists of four parts:
two parts of the central core and two parts of the outer ring. Assembly and gluing are required.

Step 1 — Assemble the core

First, glue the two halves of the central core together.
Before gluing, inspect the surface under the lower jaws of the skulls. If you printed with supports, carefully remove any support remnants. If printed without supports, there still may be minor print artifacts due to overhangs. Clean and smooth these areas if needed.

After gluing, check the seam for excess glue or small printing imperfections. Remove any bumps and carefully clean the side surface of the central disk — this is important for achieving smooth rotation later.

Step 2 — Test fit before gluing the outer ring

Insert the assembled core into one half of the outer ring.
Without glue, try attaching the second half of the outer ring. Note that you need to slide the core into the ring starting with the protruding lower jaw section of the skull.

Once you are confident with the positioning and assembly order, apply glue and repeat the process. If visual symmetry of the coin matters to you, pay attention to the orientation of the outer ring halves relative to each other.

⚠️ Be careful not to let glue get into the gap between the moving parts.

Step 3 — Final movement

After the glue is fully cured, gently work the mechanism to improve rotation. If desired, you can add a tiny drop of oil for even smoother movement.

⚙️ Movement Characteristics
Rotation is smooth but intentionally slightly constrained at first. After assembly, the mechanism may require a bit of gentle “break-in” time — a short period of active spinning will help the surfaces settle and improve smoothness.
If desired, a tiny drop of oil can make the movement even more fluid.