Old Craftsman Tool Box

I'm very lucky to have him. He's been the best dad anyone could ask for.

 

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That sounds perfect! Thank you!

 

It might be easier for folks to give you useful tips on converting this toolbox to a coin cabinet if you were to include some photos of the piece in question - exterior elevation, shots of drawer interiors, etc. Do the drawers stay attached within the box or can they be removed? If photography isn't part of your routine, a detailed description with measurements might be a help (I don't think a question even as basic as whether this box is wood or metal has been answered here).

 

Line it with bubble wrap, small bubbles.

 

I don't think I would use acetone if there is any sort of finish on the box since the acetone will remove varnish and paint. Maybe a good wash with soap followed by a light wipe down with alcohol?

 

I'd use the tool box for... tools. I admit though, my tools are more precious than my coins. I have some that have been in the family for about 110-120 years, and more recently I am still using 50-60 year old Craftsman Professional power tools.

 

Pictures of the box would help. Is it on wheels, does it have drawers, how deep, etc. Remember, anything you can smell, the coins can too. On a warm and sunny day, take it outside and wash itn thoroughly with some soap and water, rinsing THOROUGHLY. Let it air out and dry in the sun (maybe for an additional day). Next you have to decide whether to line the drawers...wow, this can be a long and fun project. Inside the drawers, use Tupperware type containers for the coins you store in bulk. Figure out some nice shelves or stacking trays to display any you want to display. Oh yeah, we need to talk about flips, 2X2's etc. Welcome to CT

 

I understand, I assumed when I said an old "Craftsman" toolbox, people would know it's metal. I apologize. It's just a little hand held toolbox. One of the ones that has the tray you can take out and get into the bottom area. I'll have to take a picture if it. I just started last month, so my collection is very limited at this time. Although, I have already found a pretty nice die crack, die chip, clipped planchet, 1942 p war nickel, and a 1909 wheat, among various other dates and varieties. I have learned a lot in this last month, some things the hard way. Lol I love everything about numismatics; everything I've learned so far anyway. So I have no doubt in my mind that this little toolbox will be the nucleus of a great collection (at least in my eyes) one day.

 

Wow! That's interesting. I would use it for tools if they meant that much to me too. But I want to preserve the box while creating a safe place for the beginning of my collection.

 

Awesome reply! I do hate to break the bad news that it's just a little toolbox. I'm sorry for getting you all excited! Hehe! I'm already putting my coins (the ones that are the most valuable to me anyway) in 2x2 Saflips, thanks to the suggestions of some members. I really like them. I'm still open to suggestions for my little box though! I don't have a creative bone in my body! Thank you very much for the welcome!

 

More like this?

 

Think you got a lot of good tips already @Leahred1967 so not much to add to that.

When my father passed away I took a toolbox of his that no one wanted, cleaned it and started using it for coins (my brother-in-law wanted the tools).
The top of the toolbox had a fairly strong oil odour prior to cleaning, so I use that for supplies; added some desiccant in the trays with the coins, though it isn't air tight so replace the liners & desiccant a few times a year.

While I wouldn't keep anything of great value in it, it actually makes an interesting little storage/display and, of course, reminds me of my Dad, each time I open it - that's much more valuable then the coins it holds.

 

Yes.only slightly different.

 

OK, gotcha'. As a thought, I would get some new shop towels or some such and line the bottoms.

 

That's awesome! Yes! It will constantly give me a reason to get it out. Oh I'm so glad I'm not the only one who wants to keep coins in a toolbox! I don't have any coins of great value monetarily, but I got most of the ones I do have from coins my dad gave me, so what better place to keep them? At least until maybe one day I can afford a better place. Thank you so much! Not I don't feel like an odball!

 

Okay. I have towels lining it now. But I was worried about the detergent.

 

That's why I said "new" shop towels. Probably wouldn't hurt to rinse them thoroughly before using...don't get too paranoid

 

I'll try not to! Haha

 

Google 'toolbox liner'. Pretty inexpensive. You can get rolls online, and they may even sell them at Lowe's or Home Depot. Maybe even Wal Mart.

 

I'll ckeck that out thank you!