The home vault
Fortunately, some simple preservation habits and a few inexpensive products will protect your collection admirably. Start by storing your notes in a reasonably cool, dry place—one that remains that way. Anywhere that is subject to extremes of heat, cold or humidity is the wrong place to store them. Ideally, conservators recommend a temperature between 18and 22degrees centigrade and between 45and 50percent relative humidity. Most well-insulated homes will sit at the high end of the ideal humidity range, but stability is more important than ideal temperature and humidity.
Watch out for contaminants. Chemicals, car fumes or any painted or glued items that are still curing are all bad for bank notes. Even some woods give off acidic compounds. Damaging gasses will accumulate in storage containers made from oak, cedar, particle board or plywood. Powder-coated metal or stainless steel shelves and storage units are ideal, but not cheap. If you are unable to provide the ideal shelving, at least place a sheet of inert foam or coroplast on them as a barriers.
And always store your notes in the dark!
It’s best to make sure your light sources are low UV emitting and not to bright. Modern LED lights are excellent sources of low UV light and there are filters available for other light forms. Displaying your favourite Bank of Canada bank note in a frame in your south facing living room is not recommended.
