Steve recently purchased important and valuable coin collections, discovering in the process some coins had not been properly stored. Wonderful coins had been seriously corroded by moisture or PVC, dramatically reducing their value. Please don't allow controllable environmental factors to damage to your coins. Let's review a few basic coin storage tips.

Moisture destroys!

Be sure to use -- and replace -- moisture absorbing packs in all coin storage areas, no matter what your local climate. Most banks do not provide humidity controlled safe deposit boxes.

PVC Slimes!

You may receive some coins from us in vinyl flips made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Vinyl flips ARE NOT proper long term storage containers. Dealers use PVC flips for inventory and shipping because they are soft -- won't scratch coins -- and don't break in stock boxes like non-PVC flips. PVC in soft flips is not inert and over time creates a slimy green film on coins. PVC film can often be removed (if discovered early) but sometimes it damages coins. Please reholder coins you receive in PVC flips!

There are a number of excellent products for long-term storage of coins. Listed below are just a few ideas.

1. Cardboard 2x2s are very simple cardboard/plastic holders. (Lots of our coins are shipped in 2x2s.) These are inert, fine for long term storage. Be sure to "crimp" staples flat before storing 2x2'd coins. Nothing is more upsetting than inadvertently creating a staple scratch on a nice coin.
2. Air Tite Holders are inert and handy. These holders encapsulate safely and securely, allowing the collector to hold -- yet protect -- the coin. The holders can be stored in boxes, albums or displayed within a flocked "frame."
3. Capital Plastic Holders are made of inert material, suitable for long-term storage of coins, and a lovely way to display your collection. These holders can be custom made for any large, small, or special collection. Since the holders are larger than other options, storage can be a problem. These holders reduce -- but do not prevent -- humidity damage.
4. Intercept Shield Products utilize new technology to prevent environmental damage using material to neutralize corrosive gases. Products include 2x2 holders, 2x2 holder storage box; deluxe album with slip cover; double box protection system for slabs. Must be replaced every 10 years.

For more information on long-term storage of coins, check with the ANA coin conservation department.

American Numismatic Association
818 N. Cascade Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO 80903-3279
Phone: 719-632-2646
E-mail: curator@money.org