| Every coin collector has seen the coin folders and | | | | typically much higher quality made out of large 3 |
| albums at the hobby shops or big coin shows. | | | | ring binders so the pages are removable. |
| Beginning coin collectors will sit and stare, which is | | | | Disadvantages of Coin Folders |
| better, which do I need, which one ultimately | | | | The largest strike against coin folders is the |
| should I buy? For the uneducated the choice is | | | | problem of protection. If coins are left in folders |
| simple, the coin folder is dirt cheap in comparison | | | | too long they begin to discolor. This could |
| to the coin album. Folders range from $4-$6 while | | | | potentially damage your collection irreversibly. |
| albums usually start at $25. So why would anyone | | | | Now, maybe if some of your coins were plucked |
| pay that much for something that at first glance | | | | from circulation in a less than perfect state to |
| does the same job? Let me tell you. | | | | begin with this may not be such a big deal to you. |
| Advantages of using Coin Folders | | | | However, if you plan to store your most prized |
| Coin folders are the cheap and easy way to start | | | | possessions this is not the method many people |
| storing your coin collection. It's the way my dad | | | | would recommend. |
| first did it and it's what I used when I was | | | | Disadvantages of Coin Albums |
| starting out. They are also super easy to use, | | | | The biggest problem with storing your entire |
| simply flip it open, find the empty slot that | | | | collection in beautiful coin albums is simply price. |
| matches the coin you have and insert. Sure it | | | | For beginners or for those collecting on a budget |
| might take a little thumb muscle to get it snug in | | | | this is a very large barrier. Another problem is |
| there, but still a super easy and simple process. | | | | complexity during the insertion of coins in to the |
| Another advantage is that they look good; I | | | | album. Many a seasoned collector when using new |
| personally really like the look of all my folders on | | | | album has been confounded by the sliding plastic |
| the shelf in order of lowest denomination to | | | | covering. |
| highest. | | | | Conclusion |
| Advantages of using Coin Albums | | | | The conclusion depends largely on your goal. If |
| Coin albums are designed to offer superior | | | | you plan to collect circulated coins as a side hobby |
| protection. They are fitted a plastic covering so | | | | then coin folders are probably just fine. However, |
| that each coin is snug and secure. Also, because | | | | if you plan to have long term storage of valuable |
| they are individually fitted in plastic both sides of | | | | coins and you can afford to spend a little on the |
| the coin are visible. Another point, if coin folders | | | | album then a coin album is going to be the |
| look good, coin albums look great. Coin albums are | | | | method of choice. |