How to Remove Proof Coins From a Card

Clear off an area where you will remove the proof coins from the U.S. Mint packaging. Spread out a clean, soft towel where the proof coins will land once you remove them.

Hold the hard plastic proof coin card with two pairs of pliers, one in each hand. Position the pliers on the edge farthest away from the proof coins inside. Make sure that there are no proof coins between the two pliers.

Slowly twist the pliers in opposite directions until you hear a crack. The idea is to break the hard plastic card, but not shatter it. Gradually work the crack open until you can pull the plastic away from the cardboard card inside.

Carefully remove all the plastic surrounding the cardboard card and proof coins inside. Do not allow any of the plastic to touch the proof coins.

Hold the cardboard card containing the proof coins 1 inch above the soft towel. Carefully twist the cardboard in opposite directions in your hands. Most proof coins will fall gently on the soft towel when you do this. Be careful not to allow the coins to fall on top of each other.

Carefully cut the cardboard card around any proof coins that did not fall out. Do not touch the proof coins with the scissors. Stop cutting about 1/4 inch away from the proof coins, then tear the card the rest of the way. The proof coins will fall right out onto the soft towel.

Handle the proof coins by the edges with coin tongs. Never touch proof coins directly with your fingers, even if they are clean. It will leave permanent fingerprints on the proof coins and greatly reduce their value. Also be careful not to breathe on the proof coins. Chemicals in your breath can tarnish proof coins.