How to Open 1980's Gov't Capsules?

Discussion in 'Coin Chat' started by iPen, Mar 20, 2016.

  1. iPen

    iPen Well-Known Member

    I have my technique down for Air-tites and newer government capsules, which I can open fairly easily now with the right tools. But, the older government OGP capsules from the 1980's seem very difficult for me to open. Is there a technique you all use to get those open? My current technique for other capsules is to tap the capsule coin side down, using a screwdriver; then, use a small flathead to pry open the capsule at the seams away from the capsule, shorter side out. The other thing I tried was using an exacto blade, but I'm not getting much luck there either.

    One example of the OGP capsule I'm struggling with is the 1982 George Washington half dollar. It's as if the plastic is sealed at the edges, unlike the more modern government capsules.

    Thanks in advance!
     
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  3. Paul M.

    Paul M. Well-Known Member

    I'd try using a pocket knife or something similarly thin.
     
  4. Cascade

    Cascade CAC Grader, Founding Member

    Exacto blade works. Wedge it in then rock it back and forth

    But, put a hairdryer to it first. It will loosen up the tightness
     
    Paul M. likes this.
  5. McBlzr

    McBlzr Sr Professional Collector

    I have had good luck with single edge razor blades at the seam where the capsule is pushed together.
     
    Paul M. likes this.
  6. iPen

    iPen Well-Known Member

    Ok, I tried the razors but with more elbow grease, while rocking it back and forth every which way. That works, though the capsule is not salvageable. The plastic bits at the edges jutted out, and I had to be careful not to scratch the coin. Thank goodness the OGP capsules changed for more modern coins.

    Thanks everyone!
     
    Paul M. likes this.
  7. Cascade

    Cascade CAC Grader, Founding Member

    Trust me... try the hairdryer first on the next. You may not even need a blade ;)
     
    Paul M. likes this.
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