Omar Khalid
Plastic coin cases are often difficult to open, and sometimes this cannot be done with bare hands. If you wish to open a plastic coin case without damaging the coin or the case, you can use a utility knife to carefully pry around the edge of the capsule. This involves inserting the blade between the top and bottom halves of the capsule in various locations around the coin's edge. Once you have created a gap around the edge, you can use your blade to slowly pry up the edges. Alternatively, you can try sliding your thumb or fingernail around the seam near the top or bottom of the case and then carefully prying the two pieces apart with your fingernail or a thin blade. It is recommended to perform these steps over a soft surface, such as a cloth, to protect the coin in case of accidental drops.
Additionally, it is important to avoid storing coins in certain types of plastic holders or other materials that can degrade over time, as this can damage the coins. If you are unsure about the suitability of a particular storage method, it is advisable to consult a trusted coin dealer or expert for guidance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic coin cases are difficult to open | True |
| Tools to open the case | Fingernails, utility knife, hobby knife, exact knife |
| Steps to open the case | Use a knife to carefully pry around the edge of the capsule, insert the blade between the top and bottom halves, place the bottom half with the coin between your middle finger and thumb, hit the heel of your hand on a hard surface to release the coin |
| Precautions when opening the case | Wear protective gloves to avoid contact with oils on fingertips, open over a soft surface in case of dropping the coins |
| Reasons to remove coins from cases | To prevent coins from degradation, to send coins for grading or to a dealer |
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What You'll Learn
- Use a utility knife to carefully pry around the edge of the capsule
- Push the coin out from the smaller side so it comes out the larger side
- Use a thin blade to separate the two pieces of plastic
- Place the coin in the freezer to shrink the silver and make it easier to remove
- Take the coin to a trusted dealer if you are unsure how to remove it
Use a utility knife to carefully pry around the edge of the capsule
To open a plastic coin case with a utility knife, carefully insert the blade tip between the top and bottom halves of the capsule. It is important to work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the coin or the capsule. Start by inserting the blade at various locations around the edge of the coin. Work your way around the entire edge of the capsule, prying gently until you have a slight gap around the whole perimeter.
Once you have created this gap, you can use the knife to carefully lever the two halves of the capsule further apart. Again, take care not to rush this step, and ensure you are working around the entire edge, not just one side. When the halves are pried far enough apart, you can separate them with your fingertips.
Now, the coin should be released from the bottom half of the capsule. Place the bottom half, with the coin still inside, between your middle finger and thumb. Then, hit the heel of your hand on a hard surface, and the coin will be released. It is recommended to place a soft, clean cloth underneath to catch the coin and protect it from damage.
This process should leave both the coin and the capsule undamaged, and the capsule can even be reused.
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Push the coin out from the smaller side so it comes out the larger side
To open a plastic coin case, you must first identify the seam. This is usually located near the "top" or "bottom" of the set. You can do this by sliding your thumb or fingernail around the case until you feel it. Once you have located the seam, you can use either your fingernail or a thin blade, such as an X-Acto knife, to apply pressure and start to carefully pry the two pieces of plastic apart. It is important to go slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the coin or the case.
When using a blade, carefully insert the tip between the top and bottom halves of the case in several locations around the edge of the coin. Work your way around the entire edge of the capsule, not just one side, until you have created a slight gap. Once you have pried the halves far enough apart, you can separate them with your fingertips.
After removing the top half of the case, place the bottom half, which contains the coin, between your middle finger and thumb. Then, push the coin out from the smaller side so that it comes out of the larger side. You can do this by hitting the heel of your hand on a hard surface, or by pushing the coin out with your finger or a soft cloth. It is recommended to have a soft, clean cloth underneath to catch the coin as it comes out.
By following these steps, you can successfully open a plastic coin case and remove the coin without causing any damage to the coin or the case. Remember to wear cotton gloves when handling the coin to avoid transferring oils from your fingertips onto the surface of the coin.
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Use a thin blade to separate the two pieces of plastic
Plastic coin cases are challenging to open, but it can be done carefully without damaging the coin inside. One effective method is to use a thin blade, like an X-ACTO knife or utility knife, to separate the two pieces of plastic that comprise the case. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Identify the seam: Plastic coin cases typically have a seam where the two pieces of plastic come together. Use your thumb or fingernail to carefully slide around the edge of the case until you feel the seam, usually near the "top" or "bottom" of the case.
- Insert the thin blade: Carefully insert the blade tip of the X-ACTO knife or utility knife into the seam. Apply some pressure and run the blade along the seam, creating an entry point. Be cautious not to touch the coin with the blade.
- Pry the pieces apart: Once you have created an initial gap, continue to carefully pry the two pieces of plastic apart. Work slowly and methodically, prying at different locations along the seam. Place a soft cloth or pillow underneath in case you drop the coin.
- Separate the halves: When you have pried the halves far enough apart, you can usually separate them with your fingertips. Be gentle to avoid any sudden movements that might dislodge the coin.
- Remove the coin: After removing the top half of the case, hold the bottom half with the coin between your middle finger and thumb. Gently tap the heel of your hand on a hard surface, and the coin should release. It is recommended to place a soft, clean cloth underneath to catch the coin.
Remember to wear protective gloves when handling the coin to avoid transferring oils from your fingertips onto the coin. Opening a plastic coin case with a thin blade requires patience and a steady hand to ensure the process is safe and successful.
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Place the coin in the freezer to shrink the silver and make it easier to remove
If you are having trouble removing a coin from its plastic case, one method you can try is placing the entire case in the freezer. This method is based on the idea that lowering the temperature will cause the silver in the coin to shrink, making it easier to remove from its container.
To do this, place the coin, still in its plastic case, into your freezer. Leave it there for several hours or overnight. The low temperature will cause the coin to shrink, hopefully allowing it to easily fall out of the case. It is important to note that a standard freezer may not be cold enough to achieve the desired result, and some sources suggest using liquid nitrogen for more effective cooling.
After removing the coin from the freezer, it is important to handle it with care. Take the coin out of the freezer while it is still in the ziplock bag, and place it on a metal surface to quickly bring it back to room temperature. You can then use a compressed gas duster, commonly used for cleaning computers, to quickly dry off any moisture that may have formed on the coin due to condensation. Alternatively, you can pat the coin dry with a soft, clean cloth or towel, but be careful not to rub it with a paper towel as this may scratch the surface.
While this method is intended to safely remove the coin from its plastic case, it is worth noting that some people have reported noticing tiny marks or flaws on their coins after freezing. These marks may be due to condensation or changes in the coin's luster caused by the freezing process. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the potential risks before subjecting valuable or collectible coins to extreme temperatures.
Additionally, if your coin is particularly dirty, you can combine the freezing method with other cleaning techniques. For example, you can soak the coin in distilled water before freezing, as the expansion of water during freezing can help break off dirt and grime. After freezing, gently pat or brush off any remaining dirt. Repeat the soaking and freezing process as needed until the coin is clean.
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Take the coin to a trusted dealer if you are unsure how to remove it
If you are unsure about how to remove a coin from its plastic case, it is best to take it to a trusted dealer. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you to avoid damaging the coin.
Coin capsules are designed to be difficult to reopen once they have been closed, and attempting to do so without the proper knowledge or tools can result in harm to the coin or its casing. An honest coin dealer will be able to advise you on the best way to remove the coin without causing any damage, and they may even be able to help you with the process.
It is important to remember that removing a coin from its case can decrease its value. Coins that have been slabbed by a third-party grading service, for example, are worth a premium in their protective cases. By taking your coin to a trusted dealer, you can get an expert opinion on whether removing the coin from its case is a good idea and ensure that you are making an informed decision.
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove a coin from its plastic case due to the risk of damage. For example, early sets of coins issued by the United States Mint before 1955 came in paper envelopes that contained acids or plastics that degrade over time. In such cases, a coin dealer will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you to protect your investment.
By seeking the advice of a trusted dealer, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision about how to best care for and display your coin collection.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of plastic coin case. Some plastic coin cases are difficult to open and cannot be pried open with your fingers. In such cases, you can use a utility knife or a thin hobby knife to carefully pry around the edge of the capsule. Insert the blade between the top and bottom halves of the capsule at various locations around the edge. Once you have created a slight gap around the edge, you can use the knife to slowly pry up the edges. Finally, separate the halves with your fingertips.
It is important to handle coins with care and avoid touching them with your bare fingers as the oils on your fingertips can damage the coins. Always wear cotton gloves, preferably archival/museum-quality, when handling coins. Additionally, use a soft, clean cloth to catch the coin when removing it from the case to prevent any damage in case of drops.
Yes, coins that have been slabbed by third-party grading services are typically worth more in their protective cases. These coins should not be removed from their permanent holders unless there is a specific reason to do so. However, some early sets issued by the United States Mint before 1955 came in paper envelopes or plastic holders that can degrade over time. In such cases, it is advisable to remove the coins from these original holders to prevent damage.
If the coin is stuck and does not pop out, you can try using your thumb/fingernail to slide around the seam of the plastic holder, usually near the "top" or "bottom". Once you locate the seam, use your fingernail or a thin blade carefully while applying some pressure to slowly pry the two pieces apart. It is recommended to do this over a soft surface, such as a cloth or a pillow, to prevent damage in case of drops.
One alternative method suggested by a collector is to place the entire plastic coin case in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator. The idea is that the cold temperature will cause the metal of the coin to shrink, making it easier to fall out of the container. However, this method may not work for all types of plastic coin cases and could potentially damage the coin if not done properly.
