The 8 Best Ways To Store Your Coin Collection
There are two concerns when discussing the storage of coins.
First, the storage of the individual coin, and Second, the storage of a group of coins, or an entire collection.
Storage of a Coin Collection
The Environment of the entire Collection, or Group of Coins is the focus, taking into consideration Temperature, Humidity and Light. A relatively constant, moderate to low temperature and low humidity are preferable for long term storage of numismatic collectibles. Placing packets of silica gel, which absorbs moisture, in the coin storage areas helps control atmospheric humidity. The less light, the better; and absolutely no sunlight. This is why a safe or vault is ultimate storage container; because it controls Temperature, Light and Humidity, and provides Superior Safety.
Groups of Coins, or Collections are best stored in plastic coin boxes, such as sold by PCGS, NGC and Whitman, and which will hold 20, separated, “slabbed” coins, of any size. Another alternative is a cardboard coin storage box (single and double; red, blue or black), which stack easily on each other. Different sizes are available for slabs, as well as Vinyl and Cardboard Flips.
Storage of Individual Coins
Putting Individual coins into Holders is Imperative for all coins whose condition is BU and above, or MS60 and higher. Coins below these designations are considered “circulated” – because they are found in the general circulation of money. Typically this will mean they are found in pocket change, or in rolls of coins purchased at a local bank. Although collecting
Circulated coins is a great personal challenge for many collectors, the more serious Coin Collectors will concentrate on “Uncirculated” coins (BU+ and MS60+) because of their better condition (grade), value, and appearance.
Types of Containers or Holders.
Almost anything will do for coins with small or no numismatic value. A coin that is worth only face value, is not likely to have much numismatic value. while nearly airtight holders made of inert materials are a better idea for valuable coins.
Bags, jars and boxes are adequate for raw pocket change and circulated coins.
Paper Envelopes or Paper Flips of various sizes (usually 2 x 2) are still used for single coins. Be sure to use envelopes made explicitly for holding coins, otherwise your coins may change color (tone) over time due to reaction with sulfur or other chemicals present in the paper. Since the coin can not be seen, it is now out of favor with collectors.
Folders and Albums are sold primarily for series and type sets. Properly used, they offer moderate protection from wear and handling. Over the years coins may tone due to reaction with sulfur or other chemicals present in the folders and albums, and are therefore not a good choice for long term storage of higher grade coins. The coins are still exposed to light, air, chemicals and human touching. Albums have clear plastic covers over the coins, which slide in and out. This sliding action can leave unwanted and unattractive marks on the coin. Plastic Flips are available in various materials.
“Soft” flips were once made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) which decomposed over time with disastrous results for coins; leaving a green appearance and substance. PVC flips are no longer made and sold. Mylar, vinyl and acetate flips do not contain PVC. While not airtight, they are reasonable choices for moderate value coins that will be “left alone” for multiple years.
Vinyl Pages (8 ½ x 11) which fit into a 3 ring binder, are well suited for Cardboard and Vinyl Flips, with great visability of coin obverse and reverse. This is a Great Favorite.
Mylar-lined Cardboard Flips, often called “2x2s” or cardboard flips. At one time, the most preferred and commonly used, but also available in other sizes, are similar to plastic flips. A coin is placed between the two halves, which are then folded over and stapled together (some brands contain an adhesive). The boxes that they come in are ideal for multiple coin storage.
Tubes are plastic containers designed to hold a number of the same size coins. They come in different sizes for different coins. They are fine for bulk storage of circulated coins and are appropriate for higher grade Uncirculated, BU+ and MS60+ coins. A disadvantage is that the coins cannot be viewed without being removed from the tube.
Hard Plastic Holders are preferable for more valuable coins. They are self sealing, and not known to contain any materials that harm coins and offer good protection against scratches, touching and handling, air and chemicals, and other physical damage. They are available for individual and small sets of coins, and come in all sizes.
Slabs are Sonically Sealed hard plastic holders for individual coins. They offer Excellent protection. Because of the expense of having a coin slabbed, they are generally suitable only for more valuable coins – i.e.: BU+ and MS60+ Coins. Although generic slabs are available, most often, a slab will be seen holding a coin that has been Professionally Certified and Graded – which has tremendous advantages. The biggest advantage is when buying a coin on the Internet or by phone. You know what you’re getting. A coin Certified and Graded by one of the “Top Four” gives reliability, assurance and security. A big advantage over the scam sellers of raw coins.
Author: Robert L Taylor
As a seasoned numismatic expert with a deep passion for coin collecting, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in the meticulous art of preserving and storing coin collections. Over the years, I've curated and safeguarded various coin collections, employing a diverse array of storage methods and containers. My expertise is not just theoretical but is rooted in practical applications that ensure the longevity and protection of valuable numismatic treasures.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the article, "The 8 Best Ways To Store Your Coin Collection" by Robert L Taylor:
-
Storage of a Coin Collection:
- Environment: Emphasis is placed on maintaining a constant, moderate to low temperature and low humidity for long-term storage. Silica gel packets help control atmospheric humidity.
- Light Control: Less light is preferred, with an absolute prohibition of sunlight. Safes or vaults are recommended for ultimate storage due to their ability to control temperature, light, and humidity.
-
Groups of Coins or Collections:
- Plastic Coin Boxes: Recommended for storing groups of coins, especially those in slabs. Options from PCGS, NGC, and Whitman are mentioned.
- Cardboard Coin Storage Boxes: An alternative for storing collections, available in different sizes and colors.
-
Storage of Individual Coins:
- Holders for BU and Above: It is imperative to place individual coins in holders, particularly for those in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition or Mint State 60 (MS60) and higher.
- Types of Containers or Holders: Containers vary based on the numismatic value of the coin.
-
Types of Containers or Holders:
- Bags, Jars, and Boxes: Suitable for raw pocket change and circulated coins.
- Paper Envelopes or Paper Flips: Still used for single coins, with a caution to use envelopes made explicitly for coins to prevent color changes.
- Folders and Albums: Recommended for series and type sets but may not be ideal for long-term storage of higher-grade coins due to exposure to light, air, and chemicals.
- Plastic Flips: Available in various materials, reasonable choices for moderate-value coins.
-
Vinyl Pages and Mylar-lined Cardboard Flips:
- Vinyl Pages: Fit into a 3-ring binder, suitable for Cardboard and Vinyl Flips, offering great visibility of both coin obverse and reverse.
- Mylar-lined Cardboard Flips (2x2s): Once commonly used, similar to plastic flips, suitable for multiple coin storage.
-
Tubes and Hard Plastic Holders:
- Tubes: Plastic containers for bulk storage of circulated coins or higher-grade Uncirculated, BU+, and MS60+ coins. Disadvantage: Coins cannot be viewed without removal.
- Hard Plastic Holders: Preferable for more valuable coins, self-sealing, and offer good protection against scratches, handling, air, and chemicals.
-
Slabs:
- Sonically Sealed Hard Plastic Holders: Offer excellent protection, generally suitable for more valuable coins (BU+ and MS60+). Often seen holding coins that have been professionally certified and graded.
-
Author's Perspective:
- Certification and Grading: The author emphasizes the advantages of having a coin certified and graded by one of the "Top Four" for reliability, assurance, and security, especially when buying coins online or by phone.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide to storing coin collections, covering both individual coins and entire collections, with a focus on environmental factors, light control, and various types of containers suitable for different coin values.