MAYER MINT GMBH GERMANY

Numismatic Do's and Don’ts

Learning how to prevent deterioration, and possibly how to enhance the appearance and value of coins is a serious matter to any numismatist. Extreme as some of the following tips may sound, a good coin collector will know that faithful observation of these steps can make a big difference in the eventual value of his or her collection. No matter how rare a coin, if its condition deteriorates drastically, almost to the point of non-recognition, then it is worthless.

Numismatic Dos:

DO – Use suitable storage
Careful storage is very important. Mint condition coins are often encapsulated by the originating mint to prevent improper handling. These coins are sometimes ultra sonically sealed and care must be taken not to contaminate the coin if it needs to be removed from the capsule.

encapsulated by the originating mint to prevent improper handling. These coins are sometimes ultra sonically sealed and care must be taken not to contaminate the coin if it needs to be removed from the capsule.

A strong safe deposit box is probably one of the best places to keep your coins. Remember to install a dehumidifier or bags of silica gels which must be regularly replaced.

Choose coin cabinets with doors that can be securely locked. Wherever you choose to store your collection, keep your coins out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. These elements speed up the natural process of decay or corrosion on the surfaces of the coins.

Apart from avoiding scratches, a damp environment encourages discolouring. Albums with plastic pages divided into many small pouches may retain moisture and are unsuitable, especially for copper or bronze coins. Plastic often contains PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) softening agents. When exposed to heat and / or humidity, it releases a chemical that can react with and tarnish the coin. Your choice of storage should be special plastic envelopes that do not contain PVC. These clear plastic pouches are ideal because your collection can be viewed without removal from their protective enclosures and can be compiled into a coin album with a ring binder.

If you decide to keep your collection in a cabinet, ensure that it is not constructed of resinous softwoods, but rather of well – seasoned mahogany or rosewood. Moisture, natural oils or acids in resinous woods can tarnish coins. Avoid oaks too because of the reactive fumes released by the wood.

DO – Wrap Your Coins
An additional precaution is to wrap coins in specially treated soft tissue paper to prevent minute particles from landing on them as well as to isolate the metal from possibly harmful chemicals in the atmosphere.

DO – Keep a Record of Your Collection
Most collectors place coins in albums or trays with written descriptions accompanying them. A record book is kept with reference numbers to each coin, description, photo, grade, date and place of purchase and value. It is a good idea to keep a duplicate copy of such a list in a safe place.
Finally, install a good home security system. Insure your coin collection against theft, loss or destruction. A few insurance dollars is a wise investment, considering the legacy you are accumulating with your coin collection.

Numismatic DON’TS:

DON’T drop. Once dropped and dented, it is impossible to restore a coin to its original mint condition. Play safe by laying a soft towel underneath in case your coin drops during examination.
DON’T slide a coin over a hard surface. This can cause scratches.
DON’T polish. Contrary to the common perception that polishing with a soft tissue or cloth removes dirt, the process can scratch the coin’s surface. Under microscopic scrutiny, the finest scratches are visible, thus reducing the coin’s grade.

		DON'T ever wash coins. Mint condition coins in their original sealed packages keep relatively well without any handling or cleaning. Removal of dirt must be done with utmost care and only when necessary. An ultra dry environment is crucial to avoid verdigris (a green corrosive growth resulting from dampness). Storage dampness can be reduced with cups of silica gel. These gel beads are blue to start with. As they get damp, they turn pink and can be roasted to regain their original blue and dry status. Alternatively, there are several models of electrical dehumidifiers on the market.
DON’T confuse verdigris or other undesirable foreign matter on the surfaces of coins with the natural and highly prized tone of oxidation – a natural darkening of the metal which comes with prolonged exposure (several years) of metal to certain non-destructive elements in the environment. Silver is particularly reactive, turning blackish or (more desirably) blue, with a green golden hue, depending on the element with which it reacts. An even patina is highly prized by collectors, so do not attempt to remove this colouration.

DON’T finger the coin’s surface. Always hold a coin by its edge. Finger prints and their residual oil can blemish the original shine. The less you handle your coins, the better. If you have to, make sure your hands are completely dry. Ideally, you should wear cotton gloves.