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Handling Coins

Handling & Displaying Coins

Handling and Preserving Ancient and Modern Coins

Coins have become a popular item to collect. Their small size and relatively ease of storage make them a good choice for those who are new to collecting. However, many novice coin collectors make basic mistakes that can seriously lower or destroy the coin’s value.

Of course, people collect things for different reasons. If you have a lucky coin that you enjoy carrying around, there is no reason not to do so.

For many people, personal enjoyment is worth more than monetary investment.

However, if you are interested in maintaining your coins as investment pieces, there are a few things you should know.

Storing Your Coins

It is tempting to toss your coins into a shoebox or other small container for quick and easy storage. However, this can lead to damage.

Coins are made of various materials, depending on their age and where they originated. Some coins are softer than others, but virtually all coins are capable of being scratched.

Often a collection of coins that are not separated can scratch each other. Additionally, the materials in one coin may gradually discolor the others.

Coins used to be stored in specially designed fabric lined drawers. It was discovered that some of these coins sustained damage just from opening and closing the drawers.

Additionally, light and humidity may damage your coins over time.

Protect them from each other and the elements by individually separating them into approved holders. Some collectors prefer albums that can be easily flipped through. Others prefer display cases.

Whatever you choose, keep in mind that some holder materials can react with coins, causing discoloration.

Select only materials that are safe for coins. Keep the entire collection in a cool, dry place, and consider using a dehumidifier or moisture absorbing packet as well.

Many experts recommend against storing coins in wooden containers, particularly those made of oak. Over time, wood emits acidic vapors that could react with the coins, causing corrosion or discoloration.

Metal containers are considered a safer choice.

Slabbed Coins

Coins that are professionally graded are placed in plastic containers that allow viewing of both sides of the coin. They also contain a picure of the coin and grading details.

Leaving the coins in the slabs is certainly a very easy way to protect and preserve your coins. An added benefit is that there can be no dispute over grade.

However, these slabs are not very nice to look at and hard to display.

You really shouldn't remove coins from the slab. It may effect their value, especially if you scratch or otherwise damage the coin removing the slab, which is made of tough plastic.

However, some collectors do carefully remove their coins from the slabs and place them in plastic capsules specially made for coin collectors. The capsuled fit into an album and make enjoyment of your coins much easier.

I am not recommending you remove coins from slabs. Do so at your own risk.

Handling Coins

Handle your coins as little as possible.

If you must pick up a coin, do so only by the edges, never touching the face or back of the coin. The oils in your skin can react with the metal in the coin, causing damage.

In some cases, the damage may not be immediately apparent, but may develop over time.

Wearing cotton gloves can help to guard against these effects. Always hold the coin over a towel or other cushioned surface, in case you drop it.

To show a coin, lay it out on a soft, clean, dry cloth. Never drop a coin or drag it across a surface.

Cleaning Coins

Although a shiny coin may be more aesthetically pleasing, cleaning coins is not recommended.

Coin metals tend to develop a light patina as they age, which can actually enhance the coin’s value.

In addition, most cleaning methods can cause irreparable damage to the coin.

If you want to remove surface dirt, proceed with great caution. Wear a pair of cotton gloves and touch the coin as little as possible. Gently wash the coin with a mild dish soap diluted in distilled water.

Never rub the surface. Rinse with a cotton swab dipped in distilled water.

Conclusion

Coins are a wonderfully collectible item. However, many novice collectors make basic mistakes that can dramatically lower the coin’s value.

Careful handling and storage of your coins can help you protect them and ensure that they are a vital part of your collection for years to come.

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