Are my coins ruined?

RobertS · November 19, 2009 6:53AM

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

agentjim007 · November 19, 2009 6:54AM

They're ruined, give them to me.

joebb21 · November 19, 2009 6:59AM

I notcied that as well with some of my modern date 69 dcam dimes.

they no longer have that dcam look..

tmcsr69 · November 19, 2009 7:07AM

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

Arizonadesertrat · November 19, 2009 7:07AM

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

Bithrate · November 19, 2009 7:09AM

Throw some silica gel desiccants into wherever you store your coins. That'll take care of any moisture issues.

ClosedLoop · November 19, 2009 7:10AM

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.

RobertS · November 19, 2009 7:13AM

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?

8RealesReality · November 19, 2009 7:19AM

Yes, crack them out and dip them

Boom · November 19, 2009 7:23AM

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.

notwilight · November 19, 2009 7:43AM

Old coins eventually don't look like new coins....

yellowkid · November 19, 2009 7:45AM

<< <i>

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

>>

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

Are my coins ruined?

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