Professional Coin Grading Service American Numismatic Association Numismatic Guaranty Corporation
American Numismatic Association Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Professional Coin Grading Service

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How to Handle Coins

Your coins may have cost you a substantial sum of money. Here are some suggestions on how to properly handle them to avoid damage and loss of value.

  1. A good practice is to habitually pick up coins only by their edges.
  2. Never touch an uncirculated coin anywhere on its surface as fingerprints may reduce the coins grade and value.
  3. Try not to let one coin touch another as nicks and scratches can result.
  4. Do not drag coins across any hard surface.
  5. When removing coins from a holder place them on a velvet pad or other soft, clean cloth.
  6. Keep coins away from your mouth as small moisture particles can cause spots.
  7. Wear white, clean cloth gloves when handling very valuable coins.

Tips:

  • Make sure you supervise the handling of coins by anyone else.
  • Remove coins from their storage containers only when absolutely necessary.