My father gave me a binder of coins that he has collected over the years. I noticed a couple of the cents had similar "damage". The below pics show an IH and a wheat in 2x2's. Any input is appreciated on what this is and what causes it. Newbie here. Thanks.
It's PVC damage caused by the 2x2's some 2x2's contain PVC which damages coins over time. Most noticeable on copper. However if you want I'll send you a replacement for both. No PVC damage. Just pm me.
Prob 1970-1980's. I had a feeling that's what it was. I was considering re-2x2'ing all of the coins with new pages. Now I definitely will. Thanks.
It is most likely the binder or plastic pages holding the 2x2 rather than the 2x2 themselves. The cardboard 2x2 had mylar type of plastic lining them which has no PVC. The cardboard could have some sulfur in it if decades old, and could contribute to the coloring and the spot of verdigris. You can get archival plastic 3 hole binders ( No PVC) now and mylar 81/2 x 11 pocket pages for the 2x2. Jim
Thanks for the info. Can anyone recommend a simple acid-free 3-ring binder? I have been getting my supplies from Wizard Coin Supply and they have a coupe of Supersafe binders...one of which is described as archival http://www.wizardcoinsupply.com/products/three-ring-binders-coin-pages/ Thanks
Mine are Oxford brand ( I found in Walgreen ) . They are polypropylene, with no pvc, and are a "D" ring binder. I have 1 1/2 in. and 2". here is a URL showing them. I have never ordered form this source, just to show product. This is a portfolio rather than binder, but the same look. http://www.buyonlinenow.com/viewproduct.asp?SKU=ESS57442 Jim
I was just at my local Costco, and noticed that they had TOPS brand non-PVC 3 ring "D" binders, in 1 1/2, 2, 3" size. Price was very good compared to stationery sources. Jim
Possible I'm wrong of course, but those dark spots sure don't look like PVC damage to me. My guess would be they are returning spots from previous cleaning.