Keep handling of the coin itself to the bare minimum. Your coins' value is judged by quality: dust, smudges and nicks from handling will lessen their appraised value. It is especially important with your rarest coins to keep your hands off; but if handling them is necessary then only touch the outer rim of the coin.

Cleaning coins is not recommended and should be done only by an expert, and only when absolutely necessary. In fact, the patina developed on a coin over time may actually be a desirable quality to collectors and a cleaned coin could actually decrease it's potential value.

Most holders provide adequate protection for Canadian coins but you will want to be sure that your most valuable coins are protected not only from fingerprints and dust, but also moisture. Stapled or taped packets don’t give maximum protection, but there are other protectors in the market that can also guard effectively against moisture. When selecting a storage space for your collectible coins, make sure they are not in an area given to dampness, such as a cellar or basement.