Will dirty coins ruin my folders?

thesearcher

I just got two Dansco folders as a gift from my dad. One for Jefferson nickels and one for Mercury dimes. The coins I have to start with are well circulated and dirty. Some of these coins may spend years in their folder. When the day comes to upgrade to a nice UNC coin will any of the grime that may have rubbed off on the edges of the hole have any affect on the new UNC coin long term? Sorry if this is a dumb question.

Steve27

Simple answer is no you don't have to worry, that grime will not come off the coins.

BillJones

The grime might not affect them, but dirty old coins could leave behind contaminants that can promote toning and tarnish. It is for this reason that the company that sells Eagle brand holders advises their customers to switch out the windows if you use the body of the holder to house another piece. I’m take that advice on a coin by coin basis, but if you have really dirty old coins, I’d keep that in mind if you do upgrade to Mint State coins

scottgardener

Around the time you upgrade to uncirculated coins, you'll probably also upgrade to non-PVC flips or just getting everything graded.

It's also possible that you may find yourself wanting to keep your original collection even as you upgrade. Don't be afraid to use the coin folders today to house the coins you've already got in your hands, rather than waiting for coins you might or might not get later.

ricko

No.. but those folders could ruin your coins with unsightly tarnish. Cheers, RickO

cladking

PVC or green slime can be left behind by coins but if you don't
see it it probably won't be a concern. Anytime you see green
pitch it in the garbage and stabilize the coins in alcohol or ac-
etone. Don't use foam rubber and avoid soft plastic.

View your coins as often as practicable.

derryb

dirty coins have been know to cause toning on otherwise perfectly good folders.