A guide to preserving collectibles

How can you ensure the sustainability of your collection? A guide to preserving collectibles.

Preserving coins and stamps is not simply a matter of putting them in albums; it's a science involving the control of chemical reactions. Paper and metal collectibles are extremely sensitive to environmental changes; high humidity oxidizes metals and damages stamp adhesive, while excessive heat makes paper brittle and prone to breakage.

The most important factors of environmental damage:

  1. Humidity: The primary enemy that causes “green rust” on copper coins.

  2. Acidity: Using cheap plastic envelopes containing PVC damages currency and paper over time.

  3. Heat (Temperature): accelerates the rate of harmful chemical reactions.

Collections Sustainability Lab
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laboratory Sustainability Collectibles

A detailed scientific analysis of the impact of the environment on the lifespan of your belongings.

Environmental data and holdings
Collectibles category
🌡️ Temperature 25°C
💧 Relative humidity 50%
☀️ Exposure to light / ultraviolet rays 600 lux
🌫️ Air pollution / gases 1
🛡️ Protective equipment used
Analysis results
a point
Estimated lifespan
Risk source analysis
Analysis is underway…
Ideal storage conditions
Protection recommendations

Professional tools for preserving coins and stamps

For best results in the Collections Sustainability Lab, we recommend using the following tools:

  • Acrylic Capsules: They provide complete insulation from air and moisture.

  • Mylar sleeves: A chemically inert material used globally to preserve banknotes and stamps to prevent paper yellowing.

  • Silica gel: It is very necessary in hot and humid areas to absorb water vapor from storage boxes.

 You can review The Complete Guide to Evaluating Ancient Coins And to learn about the Sheldon Global Currency Rating Scale

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