Air Tite Model I - Black Ring Capsule - 36mm

Buy Air Tite Model I - Black Ring Capsule - 36mm

The Guardian of Your Collection: An Introduction to Premier Protection

The coins in a collection have a story to tell; a little bit of history, art and the remnant of intrinsic value that exist in metal. The best and foremost care of any serious collector and investor is the long term preservation of that story. Mishandling, wear and tear during transportation, or maltreatment because of poor storage can permanently degrade the condition of a coin, its beauty, and its value.

The Air-Tite Model I 36mm Black Ring Coin Capsule is not a plastic capsule: it is an expertly designed protector of your collection that will guard your collection in an archivally-secure way against the elements and the march of time.

Key Features at a Glance

To those collectors that insist on clarity and instant information, the key features of the Air-Tite Model I 36mm capsule are summarized as follows.

• True Air-Tite Brand: True American quality, produced using pride in North Adams, MA, maintaining true consistent high-grade materials and construction.
• Model I, Coins 36mm: Highly precise capsule shell to contain the supplied 36mm black foam ring, which provides a safe, centrally positioned fit of your coins.
• Archival-Grade Materials: The capsule is made with a hard, crystal clear virgin acrylic (PMMA) with a special non yellowing agent, that ensures perfect clarity over decades of display and storage.
• Chemically Inactive Foam Ring: The black ring is manufactured using Volara, a cross-linked foamed polyethylene that is totally inert and non-PVC or other toxic chemicals and offers an airtight, secure seal and elegant display-mounting frame.
• Better Long-Term Protection: This capsule is designed to protect your collection against the most prevalent hazards such as atmospheric moisture, oxygen, dust, fingerprints, and unintentional scratches, and thus to guard toning, corrosion, and mechanical damage.

The durable two-piece, snap-together design is optically clear and provides the clear detailed viewing of the obverse and reverse of the coin, as well as the edge without removing the coin itself.

In-Depth Analysis: The Air-Tite Advantage

Decoding the Air-Tite System: What "Model I" Signifies

Its nomenclature, Air-Tite Model I - 36mm black ring, may sound technical, but it is a two piece, precise fitting system. It is one of the reasons as to why collectors trust the brand to provide consistent and reliable protection.

The Shell ( Model I): The shell, or the outer acrylic shell is known as the model I due to the dimensions of the shell. Air-Tite has a lettered system (A, T, H, I, X, Y, Z) in which they classify the outside diameter of their capsules. A Model I capsule is 51.58 mm (2.031 inches) in outside diameter and 2.92 mm (0.115 inches) in depth inside. Such standardization is important given that it enables collectors to store their collection safely and effectively using compatible storage systems like the Guardhouse Extra Large Single Row Box or the Air-Tite I Capsule Tube.

Foam Ring (36mm): The inner diameter of this black foam ring is measured by the size of the Model I capsule, 36mm. This ring is created to fit and hold securely a 36mm diameter coin allowing it to not move about or rattle in the larger shell capsule.

This modular system gives a lot of flexibility to collectors. A large variety of world coins, medals, and medallions may be placed in uniform holders by using a standardized outer shell (Model I) with differing sizes of inner rings (ranging in size up to 42mm). The result is an organizable yet wholly homogeneous collection of more than sufficient holders and holders that are easily interchangeable.

The Science of Security: Archival-Grade Materials

The term archival-safe is a scientific requirement that means that materials are unable to damage objects when stored over prolonged periods of time. Air-Tite capsules are specifically designed numismatic preservation materials, using chemically inert materials.

One of the major enemies of coin collection is the use of storage materials that have Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). PVC is commonly used in common soft plastic holders, but improves with time, releasing hydrogen chloride gas. This produces a slightly acidic environment that will destroy coins and end up with a sticky residue (green slime) and will lead to irreparable damage and loss in value.

With engineered design, Air-Tite products eliminate these risks:

• Capsule Shell: Highly durable, chemically inert, PVC- and harmful plasticizers free virgin acrylic (PMMA) makes up a strong and hard plastic shell structure that is completely free of PVC. It does not degrade or off-gas and maintains the surface of the coin over time and is clear due to a non-yellowing agent.
• Foam Ring: It is made of Volara, a non-toxic, cross-linked polyethylene foam and fits comfortably on the skin and acts as an added protection against contamination.

When collectors invest in Air-Tite holders, they can be certain they are purchasing a scientifically tested and proven preservation system that shelters their assets of value against the dangerous chemical attacks.

Definitive Coin Compatibility Guide for the 36mm Capsule

The 36mm size is ideal for several popular world coins. Here's a brief overview of compatible coins:

• Canadian Silver Dollar (1935-1967): With a diameter of 36.06 mm and a weight of 23.3 grams, these silver "Voyageur" dollars fit securely in the 36mm foam ring.
• Mexican 50 Pesos Gold Coin ("Centenario"): Although its diameter is 37 mm and weight is 37.5 grams of pure gold, the 36mm ring ensures a firm, secure fit.
• Great Britain "Cartwheel" Penny (1797): These historic copper coins are precisely 36mm, making them a perfect match.
• Perth Mint 1/2 oz Silver Lunar Series I Coins: With a diameter of 36.6mm, the 36mm foam ring stretches slightly for a snug fit.

Note for Collectors: Use a digital caliper to measure your coin before purchasing a capsule. A diameter close to 36mm ensures the most secure fit.

Collector's Guide: Proper Use and Handling

Guide: Safely Encapsulating your Coin

• Set Up Your Table: It is important to work on a soft, clean surface like a numismatic mat or a velvet-lined tray in case the coin should be dropped.
• Use Cotton Gloves: To avoid leaving any corrosive oils and fingerprints of your skin on the surface of the coin it is always better to wear soft and non-linting cotton gloves.
• Prep Base: Peel apart the two capsule halves. Insert the black foam ring fitly into the deeper half, or the base.
• Place Coin: Gently take the coin by the edges and place it at the center of the foam ring. The coin will need to be fixed in the ring.
• Capping the Capsule: Lid (the shallower half), fitting over the base, should be placed atop. Press down gently and firmly in all directions around the whole rim until you hear and feel a sharp snap. This means that a tight seal has been created.

A Collector's Dilemma: How to Safely Open an Air-Tite Capsule

Air-Tite capsules fit tightly, making them tricky to open without the right technique. Using fingernails can damage them, so follow these steps for safe opening:

1. Gather Your Tool: Use a thin, sturdy blade like a utility knife or X-Acto knife.
2. Locate the Seam: Hold the capsule by its edges and find the seam where the lid and base meet.
3. Gently Insert the Blade: Place the tip of the blade into the seam without forcing it.
4. Apply a Gentle Twist: Lightly twist the blade to create a small gap.
5. Work Around the Edge: Repeat at several points around the capsule to evenly loosen the seal.
6. Separate by Hand: Once there's enough of a gap, gently pull apart the halves with your fingertips.

Safety Note: Always point the blade away from your body and work slowly to avoid injury. Repeated opening may weaken the seal over time.