How To Protect Your Valuable Coins
by Staff EditorBuilding a valuable coin collection is fun, but it can also become a nightmare when something untoward happens to them. As sturdy as coins may seem, they are actually very fragile and can be easily damaged by improper handling or storage.
One of the most common errors in taking care of coins is the myth that clean, shiny coins are more desirable than those that old and tarnished. Yes, those coins seem much more attractive, but when coins are improperly cleaned they can be easily scratched and damaged. A harshly cleaned coin is always worth less than one that is natural and untouched. Best advice is NEVER ATTEMPT TO CLEAN ANY VALUABLE COIN.
You should also take precautions to see that your coins are carefully handled by anyone who inspects them. Friends who do not know the value of old coins can be careless when viewing your treasures, so don’t hesitate to tell them how important it is to keep them free from marks and abrasions. Dropping a coin on a hard surface is just about the worst thing that can happen to it. Always hold coins over something soft when looking at them. A folded towel on a table works well and a carpeted floor is added insurance.
It is just as important to make sure that your valuable coins are stored in a secure place. A bank storage box is ideal. If that is not an option, be sure that they are kept in an inconspicuous place where they will be missed by any intruder. Also be sure that coins are stored in a place that is at a consistent room temperature and free from excessive humidity. Your attic and basement, which are the two most frequent hiding places, are without doubt the worst possible choices.
Courtesy of The American Historic Society Coin Collector's Newsletter
