Gold & Silver 1952 George VI South Africa Proof Set - Conservation / Grading

[pillowcat2012]

Hello everyone,

I have recently acquired a 1952 George VI South Africa Proof Set which has been sealed in acrylic for at least the last 40 years. Bit of history: provenance receipt says one owner in S.A. paying 440 Rand in 1984! Owner from Namibia, I acquired in the UK and it's interesting to see these coins have already been on a journey. I was unable to get my hands on a George VI proof Sovereign so this looked like a great alternative option.

It appears this proof set was put into a sealed container in the 1980 rather than the original case and the coins rattle around against the case which I am worried about.

My questions are regarding conservation and damage prevention -

• Should I look at cracking this open and getting the coins into flips? I've not handled proof coins before so I am very worried about scratching them and very worried about their current container rattling.
• Should I get all coins graded and protected or just the gold? I see there are full proof sets that have been encapsulated and would like to store them this way: https://coins.ha.com/itm/south-africa/world-coins/south-africa-george-vi-proof-set-1952-total-9-coins-/a/231449-61334.s?ic4=GalleryView-Thumbnail-071515
• The toning on the coins, the gold coins have tiny rust marks (I'd like to get these removed via the conservation option at NGC) but the coppers and silvers I am unsure about.

I've added a couple photos for you guys to enjoy. I'd love to get a better photo but it'll only be after I crack open this case.

Happy to hear your thoughts.

Thanks

A

[LawrenceChard]

2 hours ago, pillowcat2012 said:

• The toning on the coins, the gold coins have tiny rust marks...

I'd be very worried about rust marks on gold coins!

😎

[pillowcat2012]

I have cracked open the case. On closer inspection a few flecks appeared just to be pieces red fluff  I need to get these guys into a safe place. Attached some photos.

I think I will get them graded and then I can rest easy knowing I won't damage them.

[Roy]

I have the same set in its original box and I prefer to keep them that way, but that's just me!

4 hours ago, pillowcat2012 said:

I've not handled proof coins before

Good! 😁

I can understand grading the gold and perhaps the crown, although it's a market I know nothing about.

They've lasted well over the last 70 years so perhaps you worry too much!

I think it's a lovely set.

[Bruce06]

Lovely set, a nice one to hold, especially the gold coins. I like the 2 1/2 shillings, seems in brilliant condition as well.  For grading of silver coins, need to consider cost n benefit, and in my opinion, unless you would like to sell it.