The quality control on modern coins is absolutely appalling , its seems to be the same with all circulation coins , but you would think they could make an effort on a celebration issue.
When you consider the detail and astounding quality of the coinage a hundred years ago in Edwardian times such as this 1903 penny , just a circulation issue, but so fine that it could be a proof. The flecks are just remaining lustre .
Well, to be honest, I just spray some Pledge wood polish on it every now and then, and buff with a duster.
I never received any care instructions with mine.
When I bought my Nichols cabinet 25yrs ago it had a care instruction note from Peter about how to take care of it by regular use of bees wax on the cabinet (not the trays) ideally with the finest wire wool. It took another 10yrs until I actually followed through that advise and turned the rough original varnish into a smooth surface. I used wire wool twice and no more as I feel it is not necessary to wear down the surface. Only waxed it once every 5 years since.
How do you take care of your cabinet?
I know that I've shown you my big'n before. I got this from Peter Nichols when he was still making them himself, I had the stand made at the same time and I think it came to £400 all in. I later took out the two medal trays to fit more coin trays. At the time I had several non standard tray made to fit Crowns down to farthings plus four special trays to hold Maundy sets. Later one Peter also made me two extra sides which I fitted into a flight case to hold the collection when in the bank whilst I am away for more than a couple of days.
Very nice. But I bet it will cost a fortune though. I hate those TPG plastic boxes which look cheap and nasty.
I brought a Lighthouse wooden 3 tray box last year which cost £55. I have since brought another one for Quadrums (or 2x2s) with each tray holding 20 coins.
I bought mine, a Mascle, in January 2010, and I think it was among the last to be made by Peter himself at his St Leonards on Sea premises. I think it was about £130, certainly nowhere near the £216 now being asked for. Although, annoyingly, I can't locate my old bank statements from about that time, to check.