I have some US coins, some inherited, some circulated finds, mostly pre-'65 silver with some cents and nickels. None of it is exceptional, so I'm not worried about airtites or other more expensive storage options. Some bulk coins go in coinsafe coin tubes. For collections I want to look at and continue to fill in, I'm likely going with 1.5x1.5 or 2x2 cardboard+mylar stored in archival pages in a 3 ring binder, and a flat clinch stapler to keep the staples down. Keeps the coins in place, easy to store, easy to view, and seems a reasonable cost / safety compromise for this level of coin. I've searched through the forums, see lots of people talking about 3 ring binders, but just generically. Given how bad PVC and other chemicals are for coins, isn't anyone concerned about PVC, etc. in the binder itself? Most 3 ring binders seem to be vinyl-covered, although I search Amazon and see there are "PVC-free binders" which appear to be polypropylene, so I'll likely get a few of those. Questions for 3 ring binder users out there: - What binder do you use? Any PVC concerns? - How big a ring? 2" - Are D-rings any better - Do you use slipcovers / ziploc / other protection around the binder? If so, doesn't that lock in any outgassed chemicals from the binder? Thanks in advance.
Welcome to the Forum !! Yes I worry about PVC binders and use only Polypropylene binders. I have a couple of brands, but mainly Oxford "earthcare line" binders. I bought a large number at Walgreen's in a 2 for 1 sale , which they usually have before the start of a new school year. Also once found some at Walmart ( different brand but similarly labeled). I actually bought them for a large stamp collection, that I store in the same secure area as coins, and didn't want PVC plasticizers to migrate to the coins. I use mainly the 2or 3 " binders. 2" are easiest to handle. D-rings are so much better, get them. In the long run it will prevent damage to the pages. Jim
Depending on what series you're placing in the binder will determine the size ring binder you should buy. Obviously, if you're collecting a complete series of Franklin halves, you don't need a 2 or 3 inch ring binder, a 1 1/2 inch would do just fine.
Thanks for the tips! Follow-up question - anyone know a source for archival coin pages for 1.5x1.5 cardboard/mylar holders? All the ones I see online are vinyl, and I'm hoping for polyester or polypropylene. Unless someone here can point me in the right direction, it looks like I'll have to waste space and go with 2x2 pages. Seems like a business opportunity, unless someone knows of a technical reason polyester / polypro can't handle the stress of 1.5x1.5.
Mylar is archival safe for storing coins. The cardboard ones are good for the cheaper stuff. As far as supplies go for try jpscorner.
you guys just made me think of something. How do i know my 2x2 pages are pvc free? I use mylar 2x2 flips but how do i know my pages and the book are safe? Normally I would think since there is no direct contact with the coins besides to the mylar flips it does not matter. However you guys say it does? So what is it?
