Expert: PAPAJACK - 10/10/2008

Question
Greetings, is there such a thing as a proof set opening tool? How would you get the coins out without ruining them?

Answer
Hello Frederick,                       

There is no specific tool needed to open USA proof sets.
The hard plastic cases may be snapped apart carefully. Do it on a table over a soft lint free cloth. Most times the two halves open easily; try not to use too much force. They are more usually ruined placing them in new holders than getting them out of the proof holder.

Use cotton gloves to pick the coins up and place them into other storage. They are damaged easily and finger prints do not show up right away.

I would kike to note here that you have an even safer environment to put them into. Unless they are very common low value coins spend some time thinking about where you are going to keep them for long term storage.
This is where many collections are damaged or seriously lose value.
All the new holders should be Inert and use acid free materials that do not out-gas.

I hope this information helps.

Good Luck

PapaJack