Chemicals in Plastic Can Be Damaging
Question: I am well aware of the fact that coins should not be cleaned because to do so will have an (adverse) effect on their value. I have a collection of uncirculated and proof U.S. coins and have placed them in albums that use a plastic protective sheet or pocket. Care was taken in placing the coins in these albums.
However, there is discoloration on some of the silver coins and considerable discoloration on the copper cents, even to the extent that the edges that touch the plastic have turned green and have stained the plastic with a greenish oily substance.
Is it possible there is a substance in the plastic that is reacting with the copper? Finally, what is the best method to preserve coins? Also, can these copper coins be cleaned with a dry cloth to remove the oily substance?--R.M.B.
Answer: Many albums (like those you describe) or clear vinyl holders--known as flips--contain oil-based chemicals, such as polyvinyl chloride, which can leave a residue on coins. Also, such holders and flips permit coins to move around, and that can cause rubbing and the appearance of wear.
Most experts recommend storage in hard plastic holders that are chemically inert. Such holders hold the coins securely and permit them to be viewed from both sides. It’s necessary to remove the coins only when they are sold, because the holders themselves may be scratched and worn, obscuring the true condition of the coins.
Discoloration of coins is often a natural process, and some collectors prefer coins that have such toning and patina. A lot depends on the process. When natural, the coins can be enhanced. When chemically induced, this can actually cause damage. In any event, never clean your coins. Leave this to the professionals who know what they are doing. And when they make a mistake they take the loss.
If you have any doubts about which holders to use, attend a coin show and notice how the most expensive coins are displayed. Then, do the same thing with your own coins.
Q: I just discovered that I have a 1917 dime. Does it have any value? Also, I recall reading that the lead penny has value. Can you tell me which year that was?--L.McD.
A: The 1917 Mercury dime is quite common; more than 90 million were produced. It’s worth 50 cents and up. The lead penny you refer to is actually a zinc-coated steel cent. Millions and millions were issued in 1943. They have relatively little value. Many of these coins have been doctored to look new. Retail prices are about $1.
Coin News
Two old-time collections will be sold in a combined auction next month in New York. The Everson-Faught Collections go back to the 1930s and include gold rarities, proofs, patterns, colonials and a 1795 Washington Indian peace medal. A collection of federal currency notes including a $50 St. Louis federal reserve note (pictured), one of fewer than 30 known to exist, will be offered. The 256-page Everson-Faught Collections catalogue is $15 from Auctions by Bowers & Merena, Box 1224, Wolfeboro, N.H. 03894; telephone (800) 222-5993.
Ratification of the Constitution is being observed with a medal sculpted by Eugene Daub for the United States Capitol Historical Society, which was chartered by Congress in 1978. The obverse features portraits of Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay. Medals are available in bronze, silver and gold. A 1 1/2-inch bronze is $9, three-inch bronze is $32, 1 1/2-inch silver silver proof, $55; 3-inch silver, $300; 1 5/16-inch gold, $675. Place orders with the U.S. Capitol Historical Society, 200 Maryland Ave., N.E., Washington, D.C. 20002; telephone (202) 543-8919.
More than 2,700 coins are being offered in a mail bid sale by Coin Galleries, a division of Stack’s. The sale of Ancient and Modern Coins of the World and the United States features Greek, Roman and Byzantine coins, Russian gold medals, Israeli coins and medals and U.S. minor coins of all denominations. For a catalogue contact Stack’s, 123 West 57th St., New York, N.Y. 10019; telephone (212) 582-5955.
Coin Calendar
Friday, Saturday and Sunday--An auction by Kagin’s will highlight the San Diego Rare Coin Show this weekend at the Holiday Inn at the Embarcadero, 1355 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego. Show hours are Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Auction hours are Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1 and 7 p.m. For information: (619) 273-3566.