It’s only natural to want to cherish and hold your favourite coins. But touching and cleaning your coins can hurt them and their value!
Here are some tips to best enjoy and care for your collection (and save your savings).
Touching coins
Short version, don’t do it!
No matter how much you wash your hands, there will always be traces of oil and debris on your skin. Once that stuff touches a coin, it starts to damage the coin’s surface.
If you need to handle your coins, always use protective gloves and always handle loose coins by their rims.
Cleaning your coins
Put down the scrubber.
It’s never bath time for coins. No matter how dirty, worn or tarnished they are, the filth is part of their charm (aka value).
Over time, coins go through a natural process called ‘toning’. This is when oxygen or sulphur react with the metal but, it’s important to remember, the surface under the toning still contains the reflective quality known as ‘mint lustre’.
Cleaning products will remove the lustre and will add tiny scratches and fibres that render the coin worthless. Your numismatic treasure may as well be a blank.
If you’re worried about your coin’s condition, contact a professional coin dealer or conservator for advice.
Storing your collection
If you purchase proof or uncirculated coins, keep them in their protective folders or capsules.
Collectors of just about anything know the special value of objects kept in their original packaging. Coins are no exception to this. Not just because the packaging makes them stand apart from loose coins, but their containers also protect them from exposure to the elements and damage over time.
If you collect loose coins, it’s a good idea to choose suitable storage containers for them. Our eShop has a range of items to help you protect, preserve and present your coins in the best possible way.
