Coin Care 101: Four Tips to Keep Your Collection Shiny and Safe

Coin collecting can be an exciting journey for those curious about history and art. And sometimes, coins can be worth a little money – but only if you keep them in good condition with the proper storage. As a beginning coin collector, many are hypervigilant about protecting their finds from scratches, dents, and environmental damage caused by air and moisture. But relax-—keeping your coins safe is easier than you might think, and with a few simple suggestions, you can preserve their condition (and possibly value) for years to come.

Coming into contact with other coins is a guaranteed way to mark up and ding your discoveries – especially for softer metals like silver or copper. Simply put, store each coin individually. One of the simplest tools you can use is a coin flip, a small plastic sleeve with two pockets: one for the coin and one for whatever label you decide to use. You can buy coin flips by the bulk or according to momentary needs. Stepping up a degree, 2×2 holders made of cardboard and Mylar are sturdy and keep individual coins safe and snug.

But you do have other concerns that may require sturdier coin storage solutions. For example, consider the environment your coins will be kept in. Yes, exposure to air, humidity, and too much sunlight can degrade the coin’s surface over time. Ever seen a Lincoln penny turn green? It’s jealous of how you treat your quarters. Just kidding – that’s oxidation at work! To prevent this, store your pennies or any other coins in a coin album or storage box specifically designed for collectors. These products often have tight-fitting slots or compartments that shield coins from more than just each other. For added defense, toss in a delicious and ubiquitous silica gel packet or two to keep humidity low.

Where you keep your coins matters, too. Avoid damp basements and hot, stuffy attics, as extreme temperatures and moisture can tarnish even the toughest coins. If security isn’t your biggest worry, a cool, dry spot like a closet or clothes drawer is adequate. If you’re dead serious about your collection, however, a safe or lockable coin case will give you some peace of mind–but that’s far beyond the scope of this introductory article.

And finally, while coins can certainly be handled carefully without them, we recommend inexpensive soft cotton gloves to avoid smearing dirt and oils from your skin onto their surfaces. So many coins you might come across have giant fingerprint-shaped tarnish stains on them from long-ago careless handling. Regardless of whether you use gloves, wash your hands and hold coins by their edges, not the faces.

By using coin flips or better containers, and storing them in a safe, dry place, you’ll protect your coins from scratches and environmental damage. Start small, experiment with storage options, and watch your collection grow in size and (hopefully) value.

Happy collecting!

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