I've been noticing that some items in my proof sets have developed some blurriness... I'm wondering if what I am seeing is oxidation? I will attach a couple pictures - one of a 1986 Prestige Set (notice Lady Liberty) and a proof set from 1957 (notice the half dollar). Other proof sets look fine. I bought the 1986 Prestige Set new and can confirm this condition developed over time, definitely not when new. Does this represent a defect in the packaging?
Welcome! I have a few Proof sets from the 50's and early 60's that have oxidation. The plastic the Mint used then is not real good. I even have oxidation on some of my early ASE's I wonder if they would be better off in a new holder?
I had some proof sets from the 80's and several blue and brown pack Ikes like that too. A dealer I mentioned it too said it was improper storage, and was the result of either chemical fume exposure or moisture. He said it was possible it could turn into toning if conditions were right (like? lol) But it brought the value down in his eyes.
Ouch... it sounds like this may have been an expensive lesson. I don't think the coins were exposed to fumes, but they were in a basement for a few years so maybe humidity was an issue. I don't know much about best practices with coin storage as I'm a casual collector, but I'll probably buy a safe specifically for coins and keep it in my bedroom. Thanks for the comments!
Dread: There are a lot of threads here abotu proper coin storage. Use the search tool up top and you will enlightened. Ecspecially before buying a safe.
Ok, will do. At the very least I'll make sure not to put any proof sets in the basement. One thing I'm curious about though is how coins in proof sets (especially newer ones that are encased in hard plastic) could oxidize? Maybe I'm assuming too much, but I always figured the proof set coins were encased in airtight plastic? I bought proof sets because I figured that was the best way to preserve coins for posterity.
Unfortunately mint and proof sets are not airtight. :headbang: I’ve had several unsealed mint sets and I can pop open most proof sets with my thumb nail. Plastic isn’t airtight substance ether. It is filled with microscopic hole that will eventually let in air and humidity. Proper storage is your best bet.
Looks like the Ellis Island is hazing, can't tell about the Franklin. The hard plastic prrof set holders are definitely not airtight. And on the pliofilm sets the proof coins often have finning on the edges which can cut holes through the plastic, especially if something is placed on them or they are squeezed together in a box. Usually a basement is not a good storage location because the humidity tends to be higher. Proper storage is in areas of low humidity with stable moderate temperatures that do not rise or fall much. Attics or often the second floor rooms of a house are not a good choice because the temperature is often too high or swings too much.
