I've been simply using my desk or self-healing mat. I'm not sure that's the best surface to place raw coins on as I inspect my incoming purchases. I recall watching the PCGS grading process video and saw the graders use a place mat of some sort (video below at 1:53). It looks like it's some sort of soft fabric. What is that? Or is there something better? Thanks in advance!
I used to use a plain white percale pillowcase and cut a piece of foamcore to fit. When the pillowcase gets dirty from the coins, just wash it. Note: Don't use fabric softener. Chris
I examine my coins on or above the micro-fiber cloth I got from @BadThad with my Verdi-care. I also use the inner sections (trash) of the black rings that come with my Air Tite if I'm going to leave one sitting out.
I use the inner circles to push the coin into the Air-tites. Is there any chance at all that with enough force, the foam can scratch the coin?
I suppose it's possible. Of course anything you would use to put a coin into the foam insert could potentially do this. My method is to push the center out of the ring, then set the coin on the center. Then I will maneuver the ring around the rim of the coin and carefully place the ring/coin assembly into the bottom of the holder. Then I put the upper portion of the holder on top and use the force of closing the Air Tite to finish the job. I'm not saying this method is right or wrong, but at least it limits contact between the coin and the foam to the rim.
Nice thanks! How about cashmere - is that softer than velvet? I have a peshtemal towel, those are uber soft, I can try that but I think I want one in black. Or, at the other end of the spectrum, how about a thick but blubber-like rubber mat? They're tough and shock absorbing right? It may be too hard and may cause scratches or put streaks on the coins if a fluke occurs. I thought silicone or gel, but those collect dust and get other particles to stick to them.
