Coin Care

Storage

Coins are best stored in separate plastic pockets or partitioned sheets specially made for this purpose. Scarcer and more valuable coins should be stored in pockets which are PVC free. These transparent containers will enable easy viewing and displaying while allowing friends to handle them without touching the coin.

Handling

Each time a coin is handled, a small deposit of boy acids from the fingertips is left on the metal. Coins should always be picked up and held by their rims. This will ensure that your fingers never touch the highly sensitive surfaces. If you wish to remove coins from a proof set case, lift them carefully by the rim with your fingers. To replace them, press the coins back into position with a tissue of a soft cloth.

Cleaning

Some of the world's leading authorities on numismatics hold the view that coins should never be cleaned. They point out that more coins are ruined by cleaning than by any other method.

However, in many instances it is desirable that coins should be returned to their best natural appearance.

Remember, no coin must ever be polished with commercial cleaners. These cleaning agents, although very efficient, are fine rubbing compounds. Each cleaning will cause wear on the surface of the coin as well as giving it an unnatural finish and detracting from its value.

To clean gold and silver coins it is suggested that a recommended gold and silver dip be used. After dipping the coin, wash it under running water and dry it carefully by dabbing it with a soft tissue or soft cloth. Never rub the coin to dry it as this may impair the surface. If in doubt or with valuable items contact your local dealer or coin society.

Safe Custody

Coins should always be stored in a safe place. Have a small safe available for the occasions when you bring your coins home. A safe deposit box in your bank is best for storage. Discuss the insurance of your coins with your broker. Whether you insure or not you will obtain valuable ideas about security. Do not discuss the value of your coins with strangers of even friends who might repeat this unwittingly. Make it known, where applicable, that your coins are stored in the bank.

Display

Lockable display cabinets are provided by arrangement at major coin conventions, where you can make contact and share research with other collectors and dealers.