Whenever possible avoid handling your coins. Dust, scratches, fingerprints and moisture will affect the quality of your coins and depreciate their value. If circumstances require you to touch your collectibles, do so touching only the outsides, especially with very valuable or rare coins in good condition.

Cleaning coins is not recommended and if necessary should be left to an expert. Removing the patina that develops on an old coin could also decrease its value, as collectors might prefer coins with this evidence of age.

Collections will most likely be fine under the safety of a store-bought holder; just make sure that it will keep your most valuable Washington quarters out of harm's way by locking out moisture as well as fingerprints and dust. Aside from the typical stapled or taped packets that provide average protection, there are other protectors out there that can do a better job and guard against moisture as well. Protecting your collectible coins from water damage is paramount; choose a dry, controlled-temperature space, never a damp basement or cellar.