If your collection consists solely of coins encased in solid plastic then you do not have to worry much about the danger of any damage to them through handling. But it is rare for a collector to go through life without having any “raw” coins that are not protected. Even if you do not have any such coins, you are bound to run into them at times, especially when viewing someone else’s collection. Knowing the proper etiquette, customs and safety precautions, about handling those coins is essential to good conservation.
First, and foremost, it is necessary to always remember that the surface of a coin is actually very delicate. A coin may look sturdy, but that shinny mint luster is only a few microns thick, and can easily be destroyed by careless handling. We all have oils and acids on our fingers, and these are ferocious enemies of metals like copper and silver. The slightest finger mark on a coin can leave a print that will last forever. We all know that coins can only be handled by the edge, between two fingers, and that they should always be held over a soft pad in case one should be dropped. But we sometimes neglect to provide for other dangers of coughing and careless handling. Wearing cotton gloves, and a face- mask if you have a cold, is the only sure way to protect coins from harm.
Some people prefer latex gloves to the soft cotton kind. They say coins are easier to handle and less likely to drop, but they do contain sulfur and so they are definitely not recommended. Wearing cotton gloves, even when working with encapsulated coins gives a measure of protection, and is a good practice. Using them to examine raw coins is essential. Be sure that they are always clean and dust-free because dirt and dust can become embedded in the fibers and make the glove abrasive. You can wash cotton gloves and use them time and time again. Just be sure that you do not clean them with bleach.
If you get caught short and do not have gloves handy when needed, use a clean soft cloth or handkerchief instead. If you must handle coins with your bare hands, be sure that they are freshly washed and remove any rings, watches or bracelets that may scratch a coin.
Handling Your Coins Now
If your collection consists solely of coins encased in solid plastic then you do not have to worry much about the danger of any damage to them through handling. But it is rare for a collector to go through life without having any “raw” coins that are not protected. Even if you do not have any such coins, you are bound to run into them at times, especially when viewing someone else’s collection. Knowing the proper etiquette, customs and safety precautions, about handling those coins is essential to good conservation.
First, and foremost, it is necessary to always remember that the surface of a coin is actually very delicate. A coin may look sturdy, but that shinny mint luster is only a few microns thick, and can easily be destroyed by careless handling. We all have oils and acids on our fingers, and these are ferocious enemies of metals like copper and silver. The slightest finger mark on a coin can leave a print that will last forever. We all know that coins can only be handled by the edge, between two fingers, and that they should always be held over a soft pad in case one should be dropped. But we sometimes neglect to provide for other dangers of coughing and careless handling. Wearing cotton gloves, and a face- mask if you have a cold, is the only sure way to protect coins from harm.
Some people prefer latex gloves to the soft cotton kind. They say coins are easier to handle and less likely to drop, but they do contain sulfur and so they are definitely not recommended. Wearing cotton gloves, even when working with encapsulated coins gives a measure of protection, and is a good practice. Using them to examine raw coins is essential. Be sure that they are always clean and dust-free because dirt and dust can become embedded in the fibers and make the glove abrasive. You can wash cotton gloves and use them time and time again. Just be sure that you do not clean them with bleach.
If you get caught short and do not have gloves handy when needed, use a clean soft cloth or handkerchief instead. If you must handle coins with your bare hands, be sure that they are freshly washed and remove any rings, watches or bracelets that may scratch a coin.