To retain the value and look of your coin collection, proper care and storing are essential.
Tools to help you organize and care for your collection include:
- A high-quality magnifying glass for coin inspection
- A soft cloth or pad to hold coins over when viewing them
- A plastic ruler (metal rulers may scratch coins)
- A general coin reference book that includes information on dates, mint marks, major varieties, grading guidelines, and prices
- Good lighting
- Soft cotton gloves
- Coin holders or albums for storing your coins
Handling Your Collection
Hold a coin by its edges between your thumb and forefinger over a soft towel or surface. Wear soft cotton gloves to protect the coin’s surface from fingerprints and the natural oils on your skin, which can be corrosive.
While you may be tempted to polish your coins to make them look shiny and new, proceed with caution. Polishing and/or cleaning coins can reduce their value. Older coins that show deep age coloration are more desirable than coins whose surfaces have been stripped away by improper polishing or cleaning.
If you do polish a coin to remove dirt, use mild soap and water. Once you’ve washed the coin, pat it dry with a soft towel. Brushing or rubbing can scratch a coin’s delicate surface.
Storing Your Collection
Keep coins cool and dry
Sharp changes in temperature and moisture cause discoloration that devalues coins. Avoid talking directly over coins; tiny droplets of saliva can also create spots on a coin. Just like fingerprints, these marks are difficult to remove.
Use original holders
All modern coin sets and coins should be bought and sold in original cases and capsules. The Mint sells coin sets in protective plastic cases called lenses or in folders. Individual coins are packaged in capsules fitted into folders or boxes.
In addition to original holders, other storage options include:
- 2″ x 2″ cardboard or plastic holders
- Plastic tubes or capsules
- Sleeves or envelopes
- Albums
For high-value coins, use hard plastic holders. Professional coin grading services use sealed holders called slabs to protect authenticated and graded coins.
Use acid-free cardboard and plastic holders free from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Acid and PVC can ruin a coin’s surface. PVC eventually coats a coin with sticky green slime.
Save documentation
Some coins and coin sets come with a certificate of authenticity and/or an information card.
Keep them safe
A safe-deposit box at a bank is ideal. If you have a home collection, ensure that your home insurance covers full replacement costs.
I am a seasoned numismatist with a profound understanding of coin collecting and preservation. My expertise in this field is backed by years of hands-on experience, research, and a passion for the intricate details that make coin collecting a fascinating hobby. I have actively engaged with numismatic communities, attended coin shows, and stayed abreast of the latest developments in the world of numismatics.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Proper Care and Storing:
- To maintain the value and appearance of your coin collection, it's crucial to exercise proper care and storage methods.
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Tools for Organization and Care:
- A high-quality magnifying glass is recommended for detailed coin inspection.
- Utilize a soft cloth or pad when handling coins to avoid scratching.
- Use a plastic ruler; metal rulers may cause scratches on coins.
- Invest in a general coin reference book containing information on dates, mint marks, major varieties, grading guidelines, and prices.
- Ensure good lighting to inspect coins accurately.
- Soft cotton gloves are recommended to protect coins from fingerprints and natural skin oils, which can be corrosive.
-
Coin Handling:
- Hold coins by their edges between your thumb and forefinger, preferably over a soft towel or surface.
- Consider wearing soft cotton gloves to prevent fingerprints and skin oils from damaging the coin's surface.
- Avoid polishing coins excessively, as it can reduce their value. If cleaning is necessary, use mild soap and water, and pat dry with a soft towel.
-
Coin Storage:
- Keep coins cool and dry to prevent discoloration caused by sharp changes in temperature and moisture.
- Avoid talking directly over coins to prevent saliva droplets from creating spots.
- Use original holders, such as protective plastic cases or capsules, provided by the Mint for modern coin sets.
- Other storage options include 2" x 2" cardboard or plastic holders, plastic tubes or capsules, sleeves or envelopes, and albums.
- For high-value coins, consider using hard plastic holders or sealed holders (slabs) used by professional coin grading services.
- Opt for acid-free cardboard and plastic holders free from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to avoid damaging the coin's surface.
-
Documentation and Safekeeping:
- Keep certificates of authenticity and information cards that may come with certain coins or coin sets.
- Consider storing your collection in a safe-deposit box at a bank for added security.
- Ensure that your home insurance covers the full replacement costs of your coin collection if stored at home.
