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Coin collecting remains an exceptionally popular hobby, with an estimated 38% of U.S. adults having at least some experience with collecting coins. While seeking out fun new coins is often the focus, equally important is preserving and protecting your coins from damage.
This guide will go over actionable tips to keep your coins in good condition.
A lot of caring for coin collections is avoiding things that can potentially damage your collectibles. Here’s what to avoid:
Moisture: Humid environments can cause discoloration or worse. Keep coins in a cool, dry environment.
Changes in temperature and humidity: Coins do best when stored in a consistently cool and dry environment. Sharp changes in ambient temperature and/or moisture levels can cause damage.
Cleaning: Generally speaking, coins should NOT be cleaned, as this can damage their surface and potentially reduce their value.
Skin oils: The natural oils on our skin can also degrade coins. To reduce this risk, handle coins wearing cotton gloves, and/or grip coins by the outer edges.
Oxidation: Excessive exposure to oxygen can at times degrade coins, causing white spots and other imperfections. Most coins do best stored in plastic tubes or holders that reduce oxygen exposure.
Improper holders: Coins can potentially react with materials found in improper holders, cases, or displays. Use the coin’s original packaging, PVC-free plastic, or acid-free cardboard.
You don’t need a ton of gear or equipment to protect your coins, but there are a few essentials that are well worth the cost.
Cotton gloves: A basic pair of 100% cotton gloves can protect your coins from damaging skin oils and/or soap residue left over on your hands. Wear gloves whenever handling your coins for best results!
Quality coin holders: Quality non-PVC plastic coin holders can help protect your coins from oxidation and exposure to moisture. We recommend buying these directly from a coin shop or online coin dealer, to ensure you get the right material.
Magnifying glass: A basic magnifying glass can help you examine your coins more closely, and potentially spot problems before they develop.
Original documentation: If you purchase coins with original packing, documentation, or Certificates of Authenticity (COAs), keep those with the coins as this can increase their value.
The best place to store your coins depends on the value of your collection and your preferences. Home storage is popular, but can expose you to some risks including theft or damage due to fire/flooding.
Renting a safe deposit box is a good option for a moderate cost. Your coins will be stored in a bank vault, which is extremely secure – and also temperature controlled!
For larger collections, there are secure storage facilities that specialize in storing coins and bullion. These may be more expensive, but come with 24/7 security, temperature and humidity control, and potentially even insurance coverage.
We covered bullion storage options in another post – and many of the same principles apply to storing coins.
If you have specific coins that are higher value, it may be worth considering getting these coins graded. Coin grading involves sending your coins to a professional grading organization like PCGS or NGC. The grader will determine a numeric grade for the coin, based on its current condition. They will then encapsulate it in an air-tight holder, which also notes the coin’s condition and grading.
As an added bonus, getting a coin graded confirms its authenticity, which can also increase its value.
Coin grading can add a significant expense, so it’s generally only worthwhile for higher value coins. But for serious collectors, it can be a good way to preserve your coins, and potentially increase their value, depending on the grade received.
If you live in the greater Seattle area, Bellevue Rare Coins would love to be your trusted partner for all things coin related. BRC has numismatic experts on staff at each of our four convenient locations (Tacoma, Bellevue, Lynnwood and Issaquah) who are happy to examine your coins, facilitate both buying and selling, and more! Visit us today to get started.
