Like any other hobby, coin collections come with its own vocabulary, its own group of experts and specialists, and its need for unique supplies and accoutrements.Here are a few supplies you’ll need when you begin coin collection:
The first supply you’ll want to get, as a coin collector, is a thick resource book that will cover coin basics, specifics and fair market values.
The next thing you’ll want to pick up is a coin album. These vary widely from very specific coin collections, like the state quarters to a host of other coin collections and mixed coins holders.
You may need one or more for your starter coin collections, depending what types of coins you choose to collect.
A reputable dealer will often sell coins in individual coin cases for their protection. These are fine for short-term storage, but eventually you’ll either want an 11-ring binder to house your coin collections or a display box to present your coin collections.
Another thing to consider when you start purchasing rare coins is buying a coin safe. Such safes can protects you coins from the elements as well as theft.
As far as caring for your coins, there are a few basics you may like to have. Polishing coin cloths and cleaners are fairly cheap, but can preserve the quality of your coin collections.
A scale can come in handy for precise measurements, especially when trying to determine the exact market value or when selling a coin.
Humidity can ruin coins, so take the worry out of your coin storage by stocking up on packets of silica gel. This substance will deplete the humidity from the air around it, and will ensure a dry storage. Do not put the gel in direct contact with the coins; rather place the packet in the box for best results.
Oils from your fingers can ruin precious coins, and experts recommend donning cotton gloves to protect your investment when handling coin collections. Plastic or latex gloves are not recommended.
You can order cotton gloves in quantity at online suppliers, and most local hobby stores will also stock them. You’ll want to have several pairs available, especially if you like to share your coin collections with friends and family.
Make sure you instruct your friends in the proper care and handling of coins before you take your coins out.
Lighting can be a big determining factor in how coin collections are graded. A mint coin will reflect light, but there are tricks so that the right lighting will make a coin appear mint when it really isn’t.
Light can change the surface appearance of the coin to make it seem shinier than it really is. The sun, fluorescent light, incandescent light, diffused light and bare filament are all different light sources that have different effect on the coin’s appearance.
The State Quarter program has been a huge hit, especially with the coin collections. Many suppliers have items specifically designed to use with the State Quarters.
You can find maps, specially-designed folders, and special plastic display cases. These items make great gifts for the State Quarter fans in your family.
Lastly, you’ll need tools for magnification and lighting. Even those with perfect 20/20 vision can have a hard time reading the small print and detail on smaller coins. It helps to have a quality magnifying glass. This is also a good way to detect any flaws and inspect the grade of the coin collections.
Supplies and accessories are available to coin collections online as well as through shows, clubs and dealers. Visit your local coin or hobby show for supplies too; if they don’t have what you want in stock, they can often order it for you.
Source: lifeinfozone.com
