Coin collectors need a place to store their coins, and there is no better way to keep and display coins than in a Capital Plastics coin holder. I have tried many different coin holders, albums, and cases over the years, but continually find myself most satisfied (and quite happy) with the products Capital puts out. Because Capital Plastics produces a line of different types of coin holders, I am going to focus on just one kind-a classic, three panel, screw-mounted design that is quite popular with many collectors.
I wound up with my first Capital Plastics three-panel holder during my early years in the hobby. I was thirteen years old, but already could tell the difference between a quality coin holder versus one that simply did not have the workmanship or protection I was seeking. Later on, as I began building my collection further, I decided to move away from cardboard folders and plastic coin envelopes, with the aim to buy cases that are durable, long-lasting, and look aesthetically appealing. There are many such coin storage supplies available, but I have settled with Capital coin holders because they last for years and complement the beauty and eye appeal of the coins they contain.
The typical three-panel Capital Plastics coin holder measures about a 1/2″ thick, when accounting for the total thickness with the mounting screws installed. The dimensions range from 2″ x 2″ for individual coin holders all the way up to 8″ x 14″ and 12″ x 12″ for multi-coin sets. The holders include two clear panels (for two-sided coin visibility) and one opaque panel (into which a coin sits inside a round portal), with the two clear panels sandwiching the opaque panel by the use of screw posts. The opaque panels usually come in a choice of two colors, white or black, but have also come in colors like red and blue. Prices start around $5 for the small, single coin holders and climb up to $99.55 for the 12″ x 12″ holders. 2″ x 6″ holders for the typical 5-coin proof set or partial mint set can be purchased for $6.40, and 6-coin proof or mint set holders go for $11.90. These are just a few of the offerings Capital Plastics offers in their line of coin holders. Capital Plastics holders are available through most coin dealers and Capital Plastic’s website.
I like the fact that I can easily display my coins in the Capital Plastics holder by simply propping them upon a small easel, and they make for a fine presentation cases when I want to show off a coin or two. They can fit inside a safe deposit box, metal case, or on a shelf, and the workmanship of the holders allow for beautiful protection that lasts for years. My oldest Capital holder is more than thirteen years old and it still is in great shape. Also, Capital Plastics offers custom-made coin holders. I have not taken advantage of this offer yet, but it is an option to consider if you want a coin holder specially made just for the coins you want to house.
For all the positive marks I give Capital coin holders, I think there are a few things to mention about the Capital holder that may not appeal to some collectors. Namely, the issue of price gets in the way. Now, suffice it to say, I think in the case of the Capital holders, price equals quality and payout. As long as you have the money to afford buying Capital holders, there is little reason to suspect you will be dissatisfied with the protection, workmanship, or aesthetic nature of the holders. However, the question is, do you have the money for the holders? It may not make sense to pay $5-7 to house a single, circulated, common 1985 Lincoln cent worth only its face value. However, it does make sense to spend $5-7 on protecting a worn 1909-S V.D.B. cent worth $600 (a rare coin most any coin collector would love to have in his or her collection). You see, it is fair to say that the price of the coin holder is justified by the value of the coin you are placing inside it, but unless you have a million dollars to spend on coin holders, I think Capital holders are simply too expensive if the goal is to simply house an inexpensive collection of common coins (that is when I would consider buying one of those cheap cardboard folders—perfectly adequate for just such a collection).
Another issue some may have with Capital holders is that they can get a bit cumbersome to store and handle. Because they measure 1/2″ thick and can become a bit broad in dimension, they may get a little bulky when trying to store many of these holders together. Also, because one has to tighten and loosen multiple screws and caps to get into or close up a holder, people who are a little short on time or who have arthritis may find it a bit difficult to place coins inside the holders or take the coins out of them. However, the little bit of effort it takes is well worth the exertion, especially if you are planning to keep the coins inside the cases for a long time.
Finally, be sure to not drop or abuse these plastic holders. The plastic panels are liable to get scratched or even snap if they drop a long ways, or suffer a sudden and terrible blow from a sharp item. However, unless you are going to be placing a Capital holder in the hands of the Samsonite luggage gorilla (do you remember him?) or a rambunctious two-year-old toddler on a sugar high, the Capital holder should be perfectly safe; like I stress for all products of all value and any level of quality, show a little respect to it, and it will return the favor.
All in all, I swear by Capital Plastic coin holders. They make perfect sense for collections of moderate to high value—or for a coin with sentimental value of any monetary worth—and look quite attractive with coins inside them, too. Their quality and longevity are high, and the price well worth it, especially for the coins that you cherish or want to keep soundly preserved. If you want a good, long-lasting coin holder that will nicely augment the eye-appeal and beauty of your coins, then a Capital Plastics holder is what you are seeking.
