Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 7/6/2011

Question
Hi, Dmitry,

I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask my question but I'm trying to find a case for my St. Damien commemorative coin.  Here's what it looks like: http://www.hawaii247.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/DamienCoinPackage.jpg

The coin is protected already but I want to also try and preserve the case and text.  The problem is that I can't believe how expensive customized acrylic cases cost.  The St. Damien case measures about 5.5"x 5.5" x .5" (length x width x height) so it's not big at all.  Sure, I could use something like a shoe box or Ziploc container but I do want to keep it in a nice box or case since it was given to me as a gift.  It's too bad Air-tite coin holders are only made for separate coins but would you be able to suggest something to store my coin in?

Answer
Hi Sho,
The most painless and cost effective way to achieve this would be to shrink-wrap the whole thing in thick mylar plastic - the same type that mylar 2" x 2" coin sleeves are made of. This is an inert plastic that will not allow moisture or air to diffuse through it. It also will not cause discoloration or green pvc slime to form on anything that it makes contact with.
If you don't have access to a shrink-wrap machine then it's not so painless after all. But it's something you only have to buy once (if you plan on preserving other items this way as well). Not really worth it to buy the machine and plastic for just one item though, but you may have a local shop that has one and offers the service for a low price.
For the cost of a custom hard plastic holder, you may as well frame it behind glass.
Thanks for the question! =)