I am a recent beginner and I've heard that desiccant in the box with my coins is a good idea. I live in the south, so humidity can be a problem. I am just using some that comes with electronic devices - silca in a 4x5 paper-type bag similar to a potato chip bag. How long do these last? When the silca life is getting close, how do I reactivate? Acer0001
Acer: If you purchase it from a coin dealer/supplier then there are instructions to 'bake' in an over to reactivate. If you are using the little (free) bags that come with stuff that you buy, then I would NOT bake them, just take out and put in a dry place until they look dry.
I do not believe that Silica will simply "dry out". I am 99% certain it must be heated to remove the water...Mike
Correct. And while the little bags will work there is no way to know when they are saturated. It is best to get some "Indicating" silica gel. It changes color when it gets saturated and needs to be reheated. That way you can just look at it and know whether or not it is still protecting your coins. The stuff is cheap so don't try and pinch pennies.
How long they last depends on the ambient humidity, how air-tight the container is that they are kept in and how often you open it. I agree that you should get the ones with indicators for any container you will be opening more than very rarely. Metal canisters with color indicators are available from numerous coin dealers. I got them from Brooklyn Gallery of Coins (www.brooklyngallery.com). They offer volume discounts if you buy 6 or more. I have ordered, but not received yet, dessicants that can be reactivated by plugging them in to an electric outlet for 8-12 hours . These also have the color indicator. They are available at a 50% discount from Amazon.com. (Eva-dry EDV-300 Renewable Wireless Mini Dehumidifer)
