Mint Plastic Crackout Question - 1982 Commem Proof Halves

jmski52

I have some 1982 George Washington Commemorative Proof Halves that I would like to remove from the round plastic lens that they came in, but I tried one and my method wasn't very good.

The round lens appears to be sonically-welded in several spots, making it tricky to bust the coin out. Maybe I'm just a novice, but can anyone give me some tips for liberating a coin from these lenses?

abitofthisabitofthat

I tried this once a long time ago. I ended up scratching the coin because getting it out of the holder was nearly impossible. Some of the more recent mint products seem to fall out of their own accord. No happty medium.

Steve27

I've removed them without a problem (they are not sealed). Try using an X-acto knife (wear eye protection).

jmski52

Has anyone tried a vice?

nicetoning42107

I remember trying to crack out some 1982 commem Halves. Not a good experience. I never did figure out how to do it properly. I just ended up with a bunch of dinged up Washie Halves.

Bubblehead

I also ruined several of the proofs attempting to remove them
from those capsules! Impossible, I say!
I ended up smudging, printing and damaging, all of them in
one manner or another...

Nice to know I was not alone...

lasvegasteddy

you could try using channel locks...cracking the plastic around the edge untill it breaks loose