Best Ways to Store Coins

Starting a coin collection doesn’t require much, but it’s important to know how to protect them.

There are a number of easy ways to preserve the value of the collection.

Here are the best ways to store coins from high value to wheat pennies.

10. Air-tites

Air-tite seals snap together around a coin so you have air-tight storage for maximum protection. This is one of the best ways to store coins of high value. It’s compact, durable and poses little risk of scratches and discoloration. They’re not as popular because of the cost and difficulty to label.

9. Snaplocks

Snaplock coin cases are often customized to display special finds, like a Presidential dollar. The holder section is clear in order to show both sides and features an image of the corresponding president. Each rigid case stores one dollar.

8. Slabs

These hard plastic holders are a smart choice for your rarest, highest value coins. They protect long-term, and make it easy to label and display coins on both sides. The only disadvantage is they’re very expensive.

7. Flips

These clear holders are among the most popular storage options because you can easily see and access a specific piece without rooting through the whole collection. They have a pocket for one coin and a separate pocket for labeling. If you use mylar flips, the US Mint suggests “bowing” the edges out to widen the opening so you don’t scuff the coins.

6. Cardboard containers

One of the simplest and most popular methods is to staple them in 2”X2” cardboard holders lined with clear plastic. Staples keep them from sliding around and the cardboard is easy to label and compact to store. The only drawback is that storing them against plastic for a long period can result in spotting and the seal isn’t air tight.

5. Plastic tubes

Plastic tubes are a good option for storing or transporting large collections. You can stack rolls of similar sizes under a single label. Keep them in a dry, cool place as any moisture or extreme temperature fluctuations can tarnish or spot them. This is a lower-grade option for mass storage, and they make it fun to acquire finds of lower value, like wheat pennies.

4. Original holders

Commemorative cases and sets should always be kept in their original holders along with certificates of authenticity and any information you received with it. The holders are part of the set so removing the coins will take away from the value. Most holders are made to protect and display for this reason.

3. Safety deposit box

High value collections are safest in a protective holder insider of a safety deposit box or in a locked safe. If you keep it at home, get it insured for the full replacement cost. Keep the safe out of the basement or attic where temperature fluctuations can cause damage.

2. Albums

Foldout albums are a fun way to organize and display your favorite coins at a glance and they’re easy to label. They offer some protection from handling and basic wear, but they’re best for short term use. Over time, sulfur and other chemicals in the air will cause the collection to tone. Inexpensive designs foldout for easy access. Pricier ones offer more protection as coins go in thick cardboard pages.

1. Binders

One of the best ways to store coins combines two methods. Take the inexpensive 2”X2” cardboard containers and insert them in pockets in plastic pages made to hold 20 coins per page. This method is simple and keeps your collection fully accessible and protected. Being able to see the whole collection by flipping through makes it easy to pinpoint holes in the collection.