2026-01-14
Coin Flips vs Capsules vs Tubes: The Definitive Decision Guide
Should you spend $1.00 to protect a $30 coin? The math of storage density and cost per ounce.
Every inch of your safe is real estate. Every dollar spent on plastic is a dollar not spent on silver. Here is the math.
1. The Plastic Flip (The "Temporary" Solution)
- Cost: $0.05 each.
- Pros: Cheap. Good for writing notes on the insert.
- Cons: Not airtight. Bad for long-term stacking.
- Verdict: Use only for selling or short-term transport.
2. The Coin Capsule (The "Museum" Solution)
- Cost: $0.50 - $1.00 each.
- Pros: Air-tite. Looks amazing. Protects from drops.
- Cons: Expensive. Takes up 3x the space of a naked coin.
- Verdict: Use ONLY for high-premium collector coins (Numismatics). Buying capsules for generic buffalo rounds is burning money.
3. The Mint Tube (The "Stacker" Solution)
- Cost: $1.00 - $3.00 (Holds 20 coins).
- Pros: Maximum Density. Lowest cost per coin ($0.05). Rugged.
- Cons: You can't see the individual coins.
- Verdict: 95% of your stack should be in tubes. It is the only way to store bulk volume efficiently.
Supply Calculator
Enter your total ounces. Our calculator tells you exactly how many tubes and monster boxes you need to buy.