Vintage items are valuable. The rarer and more significant their meaning or story is, the higher is their value. Some people collect vintage cars; some, antique art pieces. And some are fond of collecting old coins like World War II silver and Nazi coins.
If you’re one of these people, you need to clean and properly store them to retain their value — aesthetically and monetarily speaking. This article aims to equip you with such know-how.
What Causes Coin Damage?
Before delving into the main topic, it’s just apt to know first the main factors that can bring damage to your collection of coins like Nazi coins.
Humidity. While coins made of metal are known to be durable, they will still be subject to damage once they come in contact with water.
Acids. Acids can be found in wood furniture and packaging adhesives. Once coins (recently made and collectibles alike) get exposed to acid-containing things, they can be tarnished over time.
Improper handling. Did you know that when you handle coins improperly, your fingers can also leave deposits of acid and oils on them? These are all contributory to the wear and tear of your coins.
Air pollution. Harmful gases contained in the air can affect the quality of a coin. These substances can especially damage improperly stored vintage coins.
How to Clean and Store Coins
When you’ve gotten yourself collectible items like World War II silver and Nazi coins, it’s your responsibility to keep them in the same condition when you’ve first acquired them.
Most coins from this period appear dull. So when you clean them, bear in mind to take things slowly and gently. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean such valuable items:
First off, you must wash your hands thoroughly to get rid of excess dirt and oil (which we’ve previously mentioned can damage coins).
Get a plastic container (make sure it’s acid-free) and fill it up with warm water mixed with a minute amount of mild detergent. Get another container, but this time fill it up with distilled water.
Immerse your collectibles, one coin at a time. During this step, rub both sides from the center to the edges. Rinse it with hot running water afterward.
Gently swish the coin into the distilled water to remove any chlorine (which may also damage the coin).
Put the coin in a soft blanket and let dry.
Before storing your coins, make sure that they are completely dry. Below, we’ve listed down important tips on how to store your coins properly:
It’s best to invest in a proper coin holder, coin album, or coin folder. Be careful not to store your coins in a box or a jar as it would only bring damage to your prized collection.
The coin holder, album, or folder should not be stored in locations with extreme humidity or heat like basements, or in areas filled with chemicals like kitchens. Industry experts recommend placing them in a den or a bedroom.
If your budget allows, you can store your coins in a safe deposit box at a bank. A less expensive option is to invest in a safe that you can store in your own home or office.
At the Gettysburg Museum of History, we have genuine Nazi coins that you can add to your collection. For more info, visit us or contact us today!