Challenge Coin Care

● Handle Carefully: Whether new or old, handle challenge coins with clean cotton gloves or grasp them by the edges. Avoid touching the coin's surface directly with your bare hands, as hand oils and sweat can accelerate oxidation and corrosion.

● Prevent Physical Damage: Avoid dropping, bumping, or mixing coins with hard objects, as this can scratch or damage the enamel. Secure display cases or storage boxes to prevent coins from falling.

● Prevent Chemical Corrosion: Avoid exposing coins to acids, rain, chemical cleaners, and paint. 

● Regular Inspection: Look over where your coins are kept and displayed, paying extra attention if the area has high humidity or big temperature changes.

Principle: Clean coins from light to heavy, starting with the gentlest methods. For precious or historically valuable coins, it is strongly recommended that professionals handle them to avoid irreversible damage.

Basic Cleaning (Highly Recommended)
Gently rinse the surface with warm water to remove dust.
Then, place the coin in mild soapy water (such as neutral dishwashing liquid or acid-free soap) and gently wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth or soft-bristle brush.
Gently dry the coin with a soft, lint-free cloth after rinsing it with water. Avoid excessive friction to prevent surface abrasion.

Light Dirt or Oil Stains
Place the coin in distilled water for a short time, then clean it gently with a soft brush.
For noticeable oil stains or fingerprints, wipe the surface with a small amount of 70%-75% isopropyl alcohol and a cloth. Rinse right away with clean water and dry gently.

⚠ Note: Avoid prolonged soaking and do not use acidic or alkaline cleaners.

Hard Enamel Coins
Use warm water with mild soap, or briefly soak in isopropyl alcohol.
Avoid using metal polishing powder or wax to prevent scratching or corrosion of the enamel finish.

Soft Enamel Coins
The surface finish is delicate, so only the most gentle cleaning methods (warm water, mild soap, and a lint-free cloth) are recommended.
Avoid prolonged soaking or the use of alcohol, olive oil, or polishing powder, as these can cause the finish to flake or discolor.

No-Color Coins
Gentle cleaning is sufficient. Avoid excessive scrubbing or the use of harsh detergents, as this can damage the texture and protective properties of the plating.

Ideal Storage: Store challenge coins in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep coins away from sunlight, heat, and damp conditions. Place silicone bags or anti-rust strips to absorb moisture.

Choose the Right Container:
Acrylic Storage Boxes/Display Stands: Effectively protect against dust and scratches while providing a convenient display.
Coin Holders/Archival Coin Boxes: Provide optimal protection from air and harmful chemicals. 

Versatile Display Options:
Display Boxes/Cases: Ideal for protecting and displaying single or multiple coins.
Wall-Mounted Display Cases: Coins can be displayed by theme, date, or significance, providing both protection and a unique decorative touch.