Quick question that i haven't seen on this forum or on the internet.. and it may not be important. But, should coins, in whatever storage device you choose, be stored in an upright or flat position?
That depends on the holder you use. In hard plastic holders it doesn't make anny difference. In 2x2's it would make a difference because the coins on top could scratch the ones underneath.
In terms of storage orientation, how tightly the coin is held in position is the key factor. GDJMSP has got the 2x2 correct. Crimp the staples (if used) and store so that individual 2x2's don't move around rubbing against the ones in front and back. Flips IMO are worse. Although the plastic is thicker (more protection) staples are sometimes used to keep them closed. And flips hold the coins much more loosely than 2x2's allowing much more movement. Movement within the holder and between holders is what has to be controlled. The more you handle the holders, the more chance of a problem occurring no matter what orientation (upright or flat). But part of the pleasure of coin collecting is periodically viewing the collection. So movement will occur. Best bets - holders that definitely keep the coins separated. 1. If you get them in slabs, leave them in slabs. 2. Albums, if you collect sets. 3. Something like correctly sized Air-Tites if you have loose coins.
I guess I was thinking more along the lines of moisture accumulation. I use dessicants so i shouldn't be an issue, just curious.
Different question than your original one. With dessicants: - make sure you have enough for the space. - make sure they don't become saturated. Orientation should make no difference.