How to Care For and Handle Coins
For many collectors, one of the hardest aspects of the hobby to master is how to handle their prized possessions. Collectable coins should always be handled with the greatest care to avoid the possibility of causing undue wear and discoloration. Since the value of the coin is determined by its grade, the condition of the coin is extremely important. The higher the grade, the more valuable a collectible coin is to the collecting world. Because of this, the amount of handling that a coin experiences should be kept to a minimum. Reducing the coin's exposure to outside substances such as skin oils, dust, or even the atmosphere can greatly increase the chances of the coin retaining its initial value. If you want to simply admire the coin, it would probably be better admired from within its protective case.
As any experienced collector will tell you, a coin that is uncirculated, or a Proof coin should never be touched, except on the edges. Even a small fingerprint can easily reduce the value of the coin, and its grade. By getting into the habit of handling the coins in this way, it can quickly become normal. An avid coin collector should also avoid holding coins in front of their mouths. Small particles of moisture can escape from your mouth on your breath and eventually cause spots or discoloration on the coin's surface.
So now that we have covered the handling of the coins, the next question is where should you put them down? In order to prevent abrasions or scratches to the surface, it is a great idea to place the coins down on something soft. Velvet pads are a great choice in this case. They are soft, and leave very little trace material on the surface of the coin. If the coin is not as valuable as a proof, another possibility is to place the coin on a clean soft cloth or a clean piece of paper. While velvet is the best choice, these two will do in a pinch. It is most important that the coins are not dragged across any surface. Dragging the coin across surface can cause scratches and wear.
Although common sense says that cleaning collectible coins would make them look better, nearly everyone agrees: don't do it. Coin collectors, dealers, and investors often advise against the idea of cleaning coins. Many collectors and dealers prefer coins in the original appearance, and cleaning it can often reduce its value by half. Even wiping the coin with a soft cloth can leave scratch marks. Although the marks might not be visible to the untrained eye, they can be easily seen under magnification. If the dirt and debris simply must be removed, the best course of action is to soak the coin in olive oil or a mild soap and water mixture for a few days, and best left to the professionals. Cleaning coins can be compared to art restoration. They have the knowledge and experience to use the best cleaning materials and techniques.
Even if you take all the precautions, and handle the coin with the greatest of care, it will change. Sometimes a coin will go through a natural process called toning. It is a chemical reaction where the atoms of the surface react with the various sulfur compounds in the atmosphere and cause the surface of the coin to be tarnished. While the tarnish can be removed, for some coin collectors it does add a bit of value.
Coin collecting can be both an enjoyable hobby, and a way to add some diversity to your investment portfolio. To make sure that both your hobby and investment grows, a collector must learn the proper care for collectible coins. If handled properly, these small investments can give you great returns.
