Can't get airtite open

I received a Russian silver coin today from Russia, and it came in an airtite capsule. I don't know if it's that specific brand but it's that style. I wanted to get the coin out to take a picture, and no matter what I try, I can't get the darned thing open. There's a faint seam along the edge, but neither my fingernail nor a knife can make any headway on it. It makes me think maybe there's a different way to open it, but it's a puzzle I can't figure out. Most capsules are fairly easy to open, but this one does not want me to get in. Any ideas from you veterans out there? I'm almost tempted to smash it, but of course I'd be worried about damaging the coin, and it's a nice holder which I'd keep using after I got my picture.

 

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I have had to use the edge of a razor blade (in a holder) to get into the crack on some airtites.

 

Same here.

 

Me three ...

 

I've always had success using an X-Acto knife.

Chris

 

I'll try the razor. Right now my baby's sleeping in the room with the coin. He'll get up sooner or later.

 

This watch case tool works well.

 

I use a knife, and just push on the seem while wiggling the knife back and forth a bit. Sometimes it leaves a tiny spot on the airtite, but oh well

 

So far I've tried the razor blade and nothing. It almost makes me wonder if it wasn't designed to be opened.

 

I use my wife's fingernails.

 

If you are unable to open it, just smash it. Don't let the coin go without being weighed and inspected.

I can't think of any good/innocent reason why someone would send you a coin in a non-TPG case that can't be opened.

 

I finally got it. I was able to wedge the razor blade in and break the plastic a little so I could get a grip. I don't think it was anything nefarious; just a really tight fit.

 

astic

Neither can I. That's why I despise non TPG and USMINT plastic holders. I got a great looking Morgan, toned, holdered in a plastic holder with a slender black foam rubber rim ring that made it look even lovelier. I eventually put it up for sale, and when I was finally able to pry it out out of the plastic did I see the rim damage. My own fault, I bought it that way. I sold it for a couple bucks over melt. I have always been amazed at the NGC old holders that hide the rim totally from view. I skip them over regardless of any other factors. I need to see it.

 

Here's the coin if you're curious.

 

Well it is already opened, but next time, if you have some type of vacuum device, such as one of those (storage bags to use a vac cleaner to suck it down smaller), the air pressure inside the coin shell may pop it open.