6 Challenge Coin Collecting Errors and How to Avoid Them
Challenge coins have become a popular phenomenon that’s seeing nothing but growth. Famous figures and politicians commission challenge coins to represent themselves to the world. But how did challenge coins come about? And how should you collect these sweet coins?
To make sure you’re a true challenge coin collector, you got know the do’s and don’ts. Challenge coin collecting errors are a common happening, even for the most knowledgeable of coin collectors. Keep reading to find out how to avoid them.
1. Not Doing Research
Not doing research is one of the biggest mistakes that challenge coin collectors make. Without researching a piece thoroughly, collectors run the risk of shelling out top dollar for a counterfeit coin.
Before purchasing a piece it’s important to read up about it and make sure the piece is authentic. It’s also wise to research the types of challenge coins and sellers before investing in any piece.
2. Not Organizing Your Collection
Not organizing your collection can be the biggest error and mistake you can make. Failure to organize your collection can result in you misplacing coins, confusing one coin for another, and overlooking certain coins in your collection and that’s only a few of the potential errors. To avoid losing or misplacing coins you should store them in display cases or albums with labels.
3. Focusing Too Much on Trends
Collectors should be aware not to focus too much on trends. Paying too much attention to the latest trends in collecting may cause the collector to feel the need to own an item only because it is the current trend.
This may lead to acquiring an inferior coin that was produced cheaply and quickly. Instead, they should evaluate their coins as investments to be held onto until the value appreciates over some time.
4. Not Properly Cleaning Challenge Coins
If a coin has been tarnished, there is a risk that the patina will erode the coin’s surface, causing irreparable damage. After each handling, the challenge coin should be carefully wiped clean with a soft cloth to remove any corrosive oils and salts. Depending on the material, the coins should be gently washed with mild soap and warm water.
5. Improper Storing of Coin Collections
Coins should be kept from humidity, temperature extremes, and direct sunlight to avoid damage. For long-term storage, it is important to store coins in their plastic holders, or other inert material.
To help prevent oxidation, oils on the hands should be removed by careful handling with cotton gloves or by using acid-free tissue paper for handling. Try to store coins in sturdy boxes that keep them safe from shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures.
6. Not Joining a Coin-Collecting Community
By not joining a community, new collectors miss out on invaluable resources that could help them make the most of their collecting. Learning about the different types of coins and their values, how to correctly store coins, and even how to find the best deals, can all be found in a community. Not joining a community can also prevent collectors from finding out about new coins such as coast guard challenge coins.
Avoid These Challenge Coin Collecting Errors
Collecting challenge coins can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be littered with costly mistakes. To avoid these errors, coin collectors should research coins, examine them carefully and buy from sources they trust.
Coin collecting is a rewarding hobby. With proper care and research, collectors can avoid these challenge coin collecting errors and keep the tradition of collecting alive. Start your collection today!
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