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Are my coins ruined?

I noticed that some of my older coins in slabs do not have as much luster as they used to. I compared a 1999 one ounce Liberty to a 2008 and there is a big difference in color between the two. The 2008 looks like glass while the 1999 looks like glass but the tone is darker. I keep the coins in a safe deposit box and occasionally they stay in my personal safe when I bring them home to look at them. Are my coins now ruined? is moisture the culprit? What can I do to preserve them?


Thanks

Comments

  • They're ruined, give them to me.
  • joebb21joebb21 Posts: 4,772 ✭✭✭✭✭
    I notcied that as well with some of my modern date 69 dcam dimes.

    they no longer have that dcam look..
    may the fonz be with you...always...


  • << <i>They're ruined, give them to me. >>

    image
    Crazy old man from Missouri
  • Some suggestions:
    1. Remove any rubber bands or unnecessary cardboard or other paper products (these slowly release sulfur compounds)
    2. Store a cannister of silica gel in the safety deposit box or safe. If you live in a humid part of the country, you will have to change this fairly often
    3. Very touchy coins (high grade red coppers, etc.) should be stored in Intercept Shield boxes
  • Throw some silica gel desiccants into wherever you store your coins. That'll take care of any moisture issues.
  • ClosedLoopClosedLoop Posts: 1,077 ✭✭✭
    I've always wondered about this myself.Does the metal in the coins (i.e. gold,silver,copper) react to the metal
    you store them in such as a safe or safe deposit box.I don't know maybe it does.image
    figglehorn
  • RobertSRobertS Posts: 485 ✭✭
    now as far as the coins graded by pcgs, if they where re-graded would they be graded lower due to the toning or lack of luster? The silica gel desiccants will protect this from progressing, Is there a way to reverse the damage done?
  • Yes, crack them out and dip themimage
    "Gem EOR toners are tangible evidence that the Eighth Dimension does indeed exist."
    ---Ambrose Bierce, while attending a Heritage Auction at the 1907 Long Beach show
  • BoomBoom Posts: 10,165
    If they are PCGS certified, just leave them alone.

    If they develop issues over time, PCGS has an industry setting
    Guarantee of Grade and an excellent buyback or swapout policy.image
  • notwilightnotwilight Posts: 12,864 ✭✭✭
    Old coins eventually don't look like new coins....


  • << <i>

    << <i>They're ruined, give them to me. >>

    image >>

    image


    Funny, exactly my thought before I even read the thread!

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