Anyone who has a collection of silver coins knows that these precious metal tokens require special care to keep them looking their best. Silver is a softer metal than most others used for currency, and its reactivity means it’s more prone to developing oxidization. This is exactly why storing your silver coins in the right kind of storage can help extend their lifespan. The right environment will reduce the chances of natural contamination and exposure to chemicals that might cause damage. In this article, we will give you some useful tips on storing and cleaning your silver coins safely, so they last as long as possible!

A Brief History of Silver Coin Storage and Care

The first coins made from silver were created around 700 BC. The people who made these coins used the silver-copper alloy, electrum, rather than pure silver. This alloy is more reactive than pure silver, which means it’s more likely to tarnish, though not as quickly as copper coins. The use of silver as a currency came about around 600 BC, and its popularity has increased steadily since. The use of silver in coins is mainly due to the fact that it’s considered valuable, and unlike gold and platinum, it’s relatively easy to find in large quantities. Silver coins are popular among coin collectors and numismatists, who store and clean their coins carefully.

How to Prevent the Tarnish of Silver Coins: A Few Easy Tricks That Really Work!

Silver does not rust because it does not react with oxygen. Silver sulphide, the tarnish that will appear on the surface when it is exposed, is created when it reacts with sulphur in the air. While some tarnish is normal and will probably develop on your collection over time regardless of your actions, properly storing them will significantly slow down the process. Start with proper storage if you want to know how to prevent silver coins from tarnishing.

•   Safe with inert environment: You should first ensure the safety of your bullion. Purchase a combination safe, and only tell one other trusted person the combination (in case something happens to you). Maintain a low level of humidity in the box, which is important because too much humidity can cause your coins to rust (oxidize). You can buy coin boxes in many different sizes and shapes, so you can find one that fits your collection perfectly. If you have a large collection of coins, you can protect your tender or coin book by storing it in a larger box. To prevent dust and other contaminants from getting into your coin holder or book, put it in a box with a tight-fitting lid.
•   Think about a safe-deposit box: You might prefer to rent a safety deposit box from the bank if you find the idea of keeping wealth in your home unsettling.
•   If you don’t have a collection of coin boxes, you can store your coins in a coin and medal holder. This kind of holder is commonly known as a “tender”. Be sure to choose a tender made from inert materials like plastic or cardboard, as these won’t contribute to any chemical reactions that might damage your coins.
•   Utilize plastic sleeves or tubes: Use plastic to keep shiny silver coins in good condition.
•   Protect your coins from light and UV rays: Ultraviolet (UV) light has even more damaging effects on your coins. It can cause spots and other discoloration on the surface of your coins over time. If you have a large coin collection and you don’t have enough room to store them in a dark place, you can put a UV filter in front of your window to protect your coins. UV filters can be bought at coin stores and online.

Do Your Coins Need to Be Cleaned?

Before cleaning any potentially valuable antique or collectible coin, you should exercise caution because doing so could reduce the coin’s value. This is due to the possibility that the cleaning procedure may leave scratches and marks that a knowledgeable appraiser will notice, lowering the coin’s value.

you can clean the coins however you like if you’re cleaning common coins that you don’t intend to sell or coins with little to no collectible value.

Cleaning Silver Coins Without Damage

The best way to clean your silver coins is to use a soft, clean cloth and a special silver cleaning solution. If you don’t have any at home, don’t worry! There are lots of products available to buy online. You’ll require: Latex gloves, Two potentially filthy containers, Aluminium foil, A cloth towel or some paper towels, Hot water, and baking soda.

Following your collection of the necessary supplies, proceed as follows:

Step 1: Cover the Entire Container in Aluminium Foil.

In the first step, cover the entire container in aluminium foil. Make sure the container is completely lined, leaving as few gaps as possible. It might take several layers.

Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Add Baking Soda to the air on top of the aluminium foil inside the container, sprinkle baking soda. So that the aluminium foil on the pan’s bottom can hardly be seen, line the container’s bottom with baking soda.

Step 3: Add tarnished silver coins in step three.

With the most tarnished side facing up, place the tarnished silver in the centre of the container. If both sides are equally tarnished, you might need to repeat some of the steps.

Step 4: Add more baking soda and hot water in step four.

Sprinkle baking soda over the silver. Hot water should completely cover the silver in the container. After you’ve added the water, sprinkle more baking soda on top of the silver. It must soak for at least five minutes. Depending on how much tarnishing is present, soak times may change.

Step 5: Remove Tarnish and Grime.

Wearing the latex gloves, gently scrub the tarnished silver with the baking soda and water solution. Avoid rubbing the silver too vigorously to avoid scratching it. Scrub all surfaces—including the edges—vigorously to get rid of as much tarnish as you can. Rinse the silver frequently to remove any tarnish that may still be present, then reapply baking soda where necessary.

Step 6: Run Cold Water Through a Silver Coin.

To get rid of any baking soda residue, rinse the silver in cold water. Small white spots that are dried baking soda can frequently still be seen on the silver if this step is skipped.

Step 7: Examine your currency

Check the silver for any traces of baking soda or tarnishing that may still be present. If necessary, repeat steps 3 through 6. The silver is like new; enjoy!