It is best to handle coins and medals by their edges and wear cotton or polyethylene gloves (not latex). Gloves protect the metal from the corrosive oils and acids found on our hands. This is particularly important with proof coins, which have a mirror-like surface, because any mark on them can disfigure the coin and lessen its value.

Coins are best stored individually in coin holders called "flips" made of Mylar, a stable plastic. These holders have two pockets: one for the coin and one that can hold a piece of paper where you can write information about the coin. They come in a variety of sizes.

Somewhat more commonly available are cardboard holders lined with Mylar. These have a circle cut out in the middle that is covered with Mylar. The coin is placed on the Mylar "window" and the other half of the cardboard holder is folded over and stapled on three sides. Both sides of the coin are then visible through the Mylar. Be careful to flatten the staples against the card so that they do not scratch other coins they might come into contact with. Although the cardboard is not acid-free, it does not come into contact with the coin's surface. For the majority of coins, this kind of holder is fine.

Avoid flips and other kinds of holders made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) because they can lead to corrosion of coins over the long term. Coin albums are not recommended because it can be awkward to remove coins from the pockets (they are usually open at the top, increasing the likelihood of coins slipping out when the album is open).

Believe it or not, one of the easiest ways to store coins or medals is in individual polyethylene zip-lock bags. These are inexpensive and available at your grocery store. They protect coins or medals from scratches and from sulphur-containing compounds in the air that can cause tarnish. Many medals come with their own presentation cases. These are an important part of the object's history and value and, although the medal should not be stored in the presentation box, they should be kept together. Medals can also be stored in Mylar flips or holders.

Wooden coin cabinets are NOT recommended for storing either coins or medals. They can emit acidic vapours that will cause corrosion. Instead, use metal storage cabinets (preferably with a powder coating) or containers made of either polyethylene or polystyrene.  Medals stored in a wooden cabinet, which is stored in a damp basement is especially corrorsive to bronze medals.