It‘s best to avoid handling coins if you can. Your coins' value is judged by quality: dust, smudges and nicks from handling will lessen their appraised value. Any type of touch or fingerprint could lessen the value of your coins, so only grasp them by the edges when absolutely necessary.

Cleaning coins is not recommended and if necessary should be left to an expert. Collectors might actually value the patina a coin has gradually developed, and consider a cleaned coin less desirable.

Even though most holders offer plenty of safeguards against fingerprints and dust, you want to be sure that your really rare two cents are protected from moisture as well. 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. Protecting your collectible coins from water damage is paramount; choose a dry, controlled-temperature space, never a damp basement or cellar.