Avoid touching your coins as much as possible. A coins' quality and value decline when scratched, dusty, damaged by moisture or when fingerprints are present. If you simply have to handle your collectible coins, only touch the outer edges of the coin to minimize contact with your hands.

Cleaning coins is not recommended and should be done only by an expert, and only when absolutely necessary. Removing a coin's slowly developed patina might make it less tempting to collectors and possibly less valuable.

Moisture can cause problems just like fingerprints and dust can, so even though most holders are sufficient to protect your shield nickels make sure your most valuable pieces are really protected. Aside from the typical stapled or taped packets that provide average protection, there are other protectors out there that can do a better job and guard against moisture as well. Never keep your collectible coins in a damp, dark, cool area such as the cellar; instead, choose somewhere dry and with a steady temperature.