Protect Your Collectibles

If you have collectibles such as coins, stamps, or other items, you probably put a lot of time, money, and energy into it. Here are things you can do to help protect your collection against damage and loss:

1. Review your homeowner or rental insurance policy and make sure your collections are included in the coverage. Don't wait until damage happens to find out you're underinsured.

2. Make a complete list of your collection and store it in a safe place away from the possibility of water or fire damage, and preferably away from your home. You should also have detailed lists of all your other insured items safely stored in this manner, along with all your other important documents like vehicle titles, the deed to your home, insurance policies, etc. This way, if your home or property is ever damaged, you'll have your detailed lists and insurance papers easily available to help you make the necessary claims.

3. Water damage is harmful to just about any type of collection. If you don't display your collection out in the open, keep it protected from water damage by storing it in your attic or a dry area of your home (NOT your basement). Use plastic water-proof containers--they'll cost more than cardboard but offer more protection.

4. If you have a coin collection you can help protect your investment with coin holders or custom coin display cases. Display cases can be bought from local coin dealers or over the internet. For example, Amazon.com has a decent selection of coin collecting supplies.