Omar Khalid
Storing coins in plastic containers is a common practice, but it's important to consider the type of plastic used. PVC plastic containers are not recommended for long-term coin storage as they can damage the coins. However, other types of plastic, such as air-tight capsules, can be used as a safe alternative. Additionally, cardboard flips and albums designed for coins are also suitable options for storage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic material | Avoid PVC plastic |
| Plastic type | Hard plastic |
| Plastic smell | Smell like the inside of a hardware store |
| Alternative storage | Cardboard flips, albums, boxes, air-tight capsules |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid PVC plastic for long-term coin storage
While plastic containers are a good option for storing coins, it is important to avoid using PVC plastic for long-term coin storage. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a popular and flexible plastic with many industrial applications. However, when it comes to coin storage, PVC can cause damage to your coins over time.
The flexibility of PVC is due to the presence of a chemical softening agent. Over time, this chemical can start to leach out and settle onto the coins, leaving an oily film. This film can eventually lead to the formation of hydrochloric acid, which will permanently scar the coins. Even if you remove the coins from the PVC container, the acidic cycle will continue, and the coins will continue to degrade until permanent PVC damage occurs.
To avoid PVC damage, it is recommended to use hard Mylar plastic flips or containers for long-term coin storage. Mylar is a chemically inert plastic that is safe for storing coins and must be handled gently. It is important to inspect your coins periodically and replace any soft plastic containers with hard Mylar ones to avoid PVC damage altogether.
If you are unsure whether your coin containers contain PVC, there are a few tests you can perform. One simple test is to twist the plastic flip. If it bends easily without creasing or fracturing, it is likely made of PVC. Another test involves using a hot pin to melt some of the plastic onto a pinhead and observing the colour of the flame when it burns. If the flame has a green hue, it indicates the presence of PVC.
By avoiding PVC plastic and opting for safer alternatives like Mylar, you can ensure the long-term preservation of your coin collection.
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Use cardboard flips and album pages
Cardboard flips and coin album pages are a great way to store your coin collection. Cardboard "2 x 2s" have coin-sized windows covered by a thin layer of Mylar (polyester film) and are typically stapled shut. They are slimmer than hard-plastic holders, making them a good option for storing your coins. You can also write descriptive information on a 2 x 2's cardboard exterior or a flip's paper insert.
Coin pages allow you to create your own custom album and store hundreds of coins at once. They are also convenient for collectors who want to easily flip through their collections. Instead of going through boxes of holders to take inventory or show off a collection, a collector can simply pull out their binder of coins.
Coin flip holder albums come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 60 to 150 pockets, and are designed to hold coins of various sizes. The album's cover is typically made of strong artificial leather material, while the inside pages are made of PVC. Some albums are PVC-free.
While cardboard flips and album pages are a popular option for coin storage, they may not offer the same level of protection as hard-plastic holders. Hard-plastic holders are made of strong, inert materials and provide the best protection from the elements. They are also more airtight than flips, which can help prevent coins from discolouration due to air and moisture. However, hard-plastic holders are more expensive than cardboard options.
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Store coins in a box designed for flips
If you have a collection of coins stored in flips, you'll need a suitable box to keep them organised and protected. Coin boxes are designed specifically for this purpose and offer an attractive and affordable way to store your coins.
There are a variety of coin boxes available on the market, each designed to accommodate different quantities of coins. For example, a 2x2x9 coin box is perfect for those who are just starting out, while a double-row 2x2 coin box might be more suitable for larger collections. If you have a lot of valuable coins, you might want to consider a slotted coin display slab box, which is designed specifically for this purpose.
Coin boxes are also available in single-row or double-row configurations, with the latter being able to store a greater number of coins. Some coin boxes are also colour-coded, which can be helpful for organising your collection.
When choosing a coin box, it's important to consider the size and material of the flips that you're using. Coin boxes are typically designed to accommodate 2x2 or 1.5x1.5 flips, and some boxes are specifically designed for cardboard or Mylar flips.
By choosing a coin box that is designed for flips, you can ensure that your coins are stored safely and securely, while also being easy to access and organise.
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Air-tight capsules are a good option
Instead, collectors recommend air-tight capsules, which are specifically designed for coin storage. These can be a more expensive option, but they will ensure your coins are well-protected. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, consider 2x2 cardboard flips and "BCW" brand pages to hold them, or a box designed to hold these flips.
For those wanting to store coins in plastic bags, a temporary solution is to place each coin in its own Ziploc bag. This will provide minor scratch protection and minuscule tarnish protection. For better protection from tarnish, place the small Ziploc bags inside a larger, gallon-sized bag and suck the air out. Continue sucking the air out even when closing it, otherwise, it will refill with air. Ensure that the coins do not touch, except at their edges, to prevent scratching.
It is important to note that the type of plastic used for storage is crucial. Some plastics can contain chemicals that can damage coins over time. Look for plastics that are inert and will not react with the coins. Also, avoid using paper products for long-term storage, as they can contain acids that can harm coins.
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Use Ziploc bags for temporary storage
Ziploc bags can be used for the temporary storage of coins. While they may not be 100% airtight, they can still help to prevent unpleasant toning and corrosion of the coins due to oxygen exposure. However, some collectors have reported that Ziploc bags can change the colour of coins over time and cause toning, especially on steel pennies. Therefore, it is recommended that collectors use tubes with silica packets for long-term storage.
If you are using Ziploc bags for temporary storage, it is important to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them. This will help to reduce the risk of oxidation and corrosion. It is also a good idea to store the coins in a cool, dry place, as moisture and heat can accelerate the corrosion process.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the chemicals used in the production of Ziploc bags may off-gas and come into contact with the coins. This could potentially damage the coins over time, especially if they are stored in the bags for extended periods.
For these reasons, it is generally recommended that Ziploc bags be used only for the temporary storage of coins. If you are concerned about preserving the condition and value of your coin collection, it is best to invest in more suitable storage options, such as hard plastic containers or tubes with silica packets.
However, if you choose to use Ziploc bags for temporary storage, it is important to inspect your coins regularly for any signs of toning or corrosion. By monitoring your collection closely, you can identify any potential issues early on and take appropriate action, such as moving the affected coins to a different storage container or consulting a coin conservation specialist.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic flips are a common way to store coins.
Plastic flips are small, individual plastic containers that can hold one or two coins.
Yes, coin collectors have various options for storing their collections, including cardboard flips, coin folders, coin tubes, coin albums, and coin slabs.
Plastic flips offer protection from oxidation and other chemical damage, as well as mechanical damage. They also make it easy to view and organise your collection.
Plastic flips may not offer the same level of protection from theft as other storage options, such as safes or bank safety deposit boxes.
