Quick answer

Keep board game metal coins dry, store them in a sealed container with a silica gel packet, and handle them with clean, dry hands. For routine cleaning, use a soft dry cloth; only use a mild soap solution if absolutely necessary, then dry immediately. This prevents tarnish and keeps game components shiny.

Why metal coins tarnish and how storage prevents it

Metal game coins are often made of brass, copper, or nickel alloys. These metals react with moisture, oxygen, and oils from skin, forming tarnish (a dull, dark film). The best prevention is to limit exposure: store coins in a sealed container with a desiccant, and avoid touching them with wet or dirty hands. Unlike cardboard tokens, metal coins are durable but not immune to humidity. A consistent storage routine is more effective than occasional deep cleaning.

Choosing the right container and desiccant

Use a small airtight container, such as a plastic storage box with a gasket or a ziplock bag with the air pressed out. Add a silica gel packet (often included with electronics or sold as desiccant packs) to absorb moisture. Avoid storing coins loose in a fabric bag unless the bag itself is kept in a sealed container; fabric can hold moisture and oils. For long-term storage, separate coins from other metal components to prevent scratches.

Handling and cleaning without damage

Always handle coins with clean, dry hands. If you need to clean them, start with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and light dust. For heavier tarnish, dampen a cloth with a mild dish soap and water solution, wipe gently, then dry immediately with a dry cloth. Never use abrasive cleaners, vinegar, or ultrasonic cleaners unless the manufacturer explicitly approves them; they can strip finishes or cause pitting. After cleaning, let coins air-dry completely before returning them to storage.

Step-by-step metal coin care routine

  1. Step 1: Wash and dry your hands: Before handling metal coins, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them completely. Oils and moisture from skin are the leading causes of tarnish. Checkpoint: hands must be bone-dry before touching coins.
  2. Step 2: Inspect coins for existing tarnish: Lay coins on a soft cloth and check for dullness or dark spots. If tarnish is present, clean before storing; otherwise, proceed to storage. Common mistake: storing tarnished coins, which can spread tarnish to clean coins.
  3. Step 3: Clean if needed with mild soap and soft cloth: For light tarnish, wipe with a dry microfiber cloth. For heavier tarnish, use a cloth dampened with a drop of mild dish soap and water. Rub gently, then dry immediately with a dry cloth. Never soak coins or use abrasive cleaners; they can damage the finish.
  4. Step 4: Ensure coins are completely dry: After cleaning, let coins air-dry for 10-15 minutes on a dry towel, then pat with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Checkpoint: no visible water droplets or dampness before storage.
  5. Step 5: Store in an airtight container with silica gel: Place coins in a small airtight plastic box or ziplock bag. Add a fresh silica gel packet to absorb moisture. Seal the container, pressing out excess air if using a bag. Common mistake: using a container that is not airtight, which allows humidity to enter.
  6. Step 6: Store container in a cool, dry place: Keep the container away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and damp areas like basements. A closet or shelf in a living area is ideal. Checkpoint: avoid temperature fluctuations that can cause condensation.
  7. Step 7: Refresh silica gel every 3-6 months: Replace or recharge silica gel packets periodically. If the packet feels damp or the indicator changes color, replace it. Set a reminder to check desiccant seasonally.

Product facts

  • Viticulture Bundle: The Viticulture Bundle includes a set of Custom Viticulture Metal Lira Coins along with the Viticulture Essential Edition and several expansions. If you own this bundle, you already have metal coins that need proper storage to avoid tarnish; the same care routine applies to them.
  • Viticulture Essential Edition: Viticulture Essential Edition is a competitive worker-placement game for 1-6 players, featuring 86 custom wooden tokens and 232 illustrated cards. The wooden tokens and cards are not metal, but if you add metal coins to the game, store them separately to prevent scratches and moisture transfer.
  • Vantage Wooden Skill Tokens: Vantage Wooden Skill Tokens are designed for the game Vantage, which includes cardboard tokens; one pack covers a full 6-player game. These wooden tokens are an example of non-metal components that should not be stored with metal coins, as they can absorb moisture and cause tarnish.