I purchased a coin that was in a slab despite the fact that it was in a slab, not because I wanted it that way. I am not a slab snob and am not interested in grading. All of my coins are in 2x2s and I like them that way. Anyway, this is graded by National Numismatic Certification, and I feel like that's not even a legitimate grading company. So the question is, is there any reason for me to keep the coin in this slab? And if I want to remove it, how would I do that safely?
There are youtube videos that show how to crack out coins.. I have never done it but one method is to wrap the slab in a towel then strike it on the edge with a hammer. The seal should be broken, then you pry it open carefully....
It does protect the coin. I would keep it, in the slab. I have found NNC to be in the ballpark with their grades.
I suppose I can leave it for now and always open it later. I don't like having to keep it separate from the other coins though.
Best method for cracking that I have seen is using a vice. Just place the coin holder between the jaws and with towel wrapped around and slowly tighten. Go both long and shorter ways if you do not feel the seam pop from side to side. Careful of flying plastic. BTW, got a pic?
My scanner doesn't deal well with the slab, but here is a blurry scan. It might not look like much but it's a key date. 1954 Mexico 5 centavos.
I've used bolt cutters on PCGS slabs (just cut slightly into the "bubble" where the coin is: Should create a crack across the bubble, which you can then swing open). Towel and hammer on NGC slabs.
