Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about hollow spy coins, how they work, and why they're perfect for you.

 

Legal & Ethical Questions

Is it legal to own hollow spy coins?

Yes, hollow spy coins are completely legal to own in the United States and most countries.

Hollow coins are sold as collectibles, historical replicas, and novelty items. There are no federal or state laws prohibiting the ownership of hollow coins. They're in the same legal category as coin collections, historical artifacts, and novelty items.

Important:While ownership is legal, we do not recommend attempting to use hollow coins in commerce or to deceive. They are sold for collector, educational, and personal security purposes only.

Our hollow coins are:

  • Legally manufactured from authentic currency
  • Sold openly and transparently
  • Used by collectors, historians, and security-conscious individuals
  • Not marketed or intended for illegal purposes

Can I spend hollow coins as regular money?

We strongly advise against using hollow coins in commerce.

While hollow coins are made from authentic U.S. or foreign currency, they are sold as collectibles and novelty items, not as legal tender. Using them in transactions could be considered fraudulent because:

  • The machining process reduces their weight slightly
  • They're sold as altered/modified coins
  • Attempting to circulate them could be viewed as passing off collectibles as currency

Proper Use: Hollow coins should be kept as part of your collection, used for personal security/storage purposes, or displayed as historical artifacts. Do not attempt to spend them in stores or use them to deceive anyone.

Will TSA or airport security have issues with hollow coins?

Hollow coins themselves are not prohibited items, but there are important considerations:

X-Ray Visibility: When hollow coins pass through X-ray machines, the hollow interior cavity may be visible to trained security personnel. The coins appear as metal objects with an empty space inside.

If Questioned: Simply explain that it's a collectible hollow coin (similar to a novelty item or magic trick). Most TSA agents are familiar with hollow coins and won't have concerns about the coin itself.

What's Inside Matters: The legality depends entirely on what (if anything) you've concealed inside:

  • ✓ Legal: Digital data on MicroSD cards, written notes, passwords
  • ✗ Prohibited: Any items banned by TSA (sharp objects, liquids over 3oz, illegal substances)

Travel Tip:If carrying hollow coins through security, we recommend keeping them empty or only containing legal items like MicroSD cards with personal data. Be prepared to explain what they are if asked.

What should I NOT hide in hollow coins?

Hollow coins are legal novelty/collector items. Using them for illegal purposes would:

  • Be a criminal offense (potentially drug trafficking, weapons charges, etc.)
  • Add "intent to conceal" charges on top of possession
  • Not actually work (security technology can detect most substances)
  • Ruin it for legitimate collectors and users

Appropriate Uses:

  • Digital data backup (MicroSD cards with personal files)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Passwords and access codes
  • Small personal notes or reminders
  • Historical display/collection
  • Legitimate prescription medication for personal use

We sell these items for legal, legitimate purposes. Please use them responsibly.

How Hollow Coins Work

How are hollow coins made?

Each hollow coin is individually precision-machined from authentic currency.

Our manufacturing process:

  1. Selection: We start with authentic U.S. or foreign coins in good condition
  2. Precision Machining: Using specialized equipment, we carefully machine away the interior of the coin, creating a hollow cavity while preserving the external appearance
  3. Two-Piece Construction: The coin is machined into two halves that fit together with extreme precision
  4. Friction-Fit Assembly: The halves are engineered to hold together firmly through precise tolerances (measured in thousandths of an inch), not threads
  5. Quality Control: Each coin is inspected to ensure it appears normal and stays closed during handling

The result is a coin that looks and feels completely normal to casual inspection, but contains a hidden compartment accessible only with the included disassembly ring.

Made in USA:All our hollow coins are manufactured in our Missouri facility. This is American craftsmanship, not overseas mass production.

How do I open a hollow coin?

Opening requires the included disassembly ring. It's very simple:

  1. Place the hollow coin into the disassembly ring
  2. The ring has a ledge that holds the larger half while allowing the smaller half to fall through
  3. Hold the ring in one hand with the coin inside
  4. Tap firmly against a hard surface (table, countertop, hard book cover)
  5. The smaller "male" half will fall through the ring, separating the coin
  6. Remove both halves to access the interior cavity

Closing the coin: Simply align the two halves carefully and press together firmly. The precision fit will hold them securely. Once closed, the coin can be handled normally.

Important:Without the disassembly ring, it's nearly impossible to open hollow coins without damaging them. Keep your disassembly ring in a safe place!

Can hollow coins accidentally open in my pocket or wallet?

No. When properly closed, hollow coins will not accidentally separate during normal handling.

The precision friction-fit is designed to withstand:

  • Normal handling and movement in pockets or wallets
  • Being dropped on hard surfaces
  • Jostling in bags or containers with other coins
  • Temperature changes
  • Typical wear and handling

The coins require deliberate action (tapping in the disassembly ring) to open. You can carry them with confidence knowing they'll stay closed until you intentionally open them.

Exception: If a coin takes a very hard impact at precisely the wrong angle, it's theoretically possible for it to separate, but this is extremely rare. In 15+ years of manufacturing, we've had almost no reports of accidental openings.

Can you tell a hollow coin from a regular coin by looking at it?

To the naked eye, hollow coins are virtually indistinguishable from solid coins.

What you CAN'T see:

  • The seam where the halves meet is nearly invisible
  • There are no obvious gaps or openings
  • The external appearance is identical to a normal coin
  • In a pile of change, hollow coins blend perfectly

How they might be detected:

  • Weight: Hollow coins weigh slightly less than solid coins (requires precision scale to notice)
  • Sound: If dropped, hollow coins may sound slightly different (higher pitch)
  • X-Ray: Security scanners can see the hollow interior
  • Very close inspection: Under magnification, the seam might be visible

For casual everyday purposes, hollow coins are effectively invisible. That's exactly how they were designed to function during the Cold War.

Choosing the Right Coin

Which coin should I buy first?

It depends on your primary purpose:

For Historical Interest: Start with the Cold War Reproduction Nickel ($74) - This is THE coin from the famous Rudolf Abel spy case. It's our most historically significant piece.

For MicroSD Data Storage: Get the Micro Nickel ($30) or Kennedy Half Dollar ($37) - Both are MicroSD compatible at affordable prices. Nickels are more concealable; half dollars have more interior space.

On a Budget: Try the Hollow Penny ($10) or Regular Quarter ($21) - Our most affordable options. Great way to test hollow coin technology before investing more.

For Maximum Concealment: Choose the Eisenhower Dollar ($35) or Morgan Silver Dollar ($135) - Largest interior capacity. Can hold multiple items or large MicroSD cards with room to spare.

For Silver Collectors: Go with any 90% Silver coin ($70) - Franklin Half, 1964 Kennedy, or Walking Liberty. You get precious metal value plus functionality.

First-Timer Recommendation:We suggest the Micro Nickel ($30) or Regular Quarter ($21). Both are affordable, practical, and give you a true feel for hollow coin quality without breaking the bank.

Which coins are compatible with MicroSD Cards?

MicroSD Compatible Coins (in order of capacity):

Best Fit / Most Space:

  • Morgan Silver Dollar ($135) - Largest coin, most room, easiest card insertion
  • Eisenhower Dollar ($35) - Same size as Morgan, excellent fit
  • Silver Eagle + Gold ($295) - Premium option with largest capacity

Good Fit:

  • Kennedy Half Dollars ($25-$70) - Card fits well, relatively easy to insert
  • Franklin Half Dollar ($70) - Same size as Kennedy halves
  • Walking Liberty Half ($70) - Same size as Kennedy halves

Snug Fit:

  • Micro Nickel ($30) - Card fits but it's tight; requires careful insertion
  • Micro Euro ($30) - Similar to Micro Nickel
  • Micro Pence ($33) - UK 10p coin, snug fit
  • Micro Platypus ($33) - Australian 20c, good fit

NOT MicroSD Compatible:

  • Hollow Penny (too small)
  • Regular Quarter (too thin)
  • Cold War Reproduction Nickel (designed for papers/microfilm, not MicroSD)

MicroSD Recommendations:For easiest use, go with Eisenhower or Morgan dollars. For everyday carry concealment, Micro Nickel is perfect—small enough to be unremarkable, big enough to work.

What's the difference between silver and non-silver coins?

Silver coins contain precious metal and have both collectible and investment value.

Silver Content Coins:

  • 90% Silver (0.36169 oz): Franklin Half, 1964 Kennedy, Walking Liberty ($70 each)
  • 90% Silver (0.77344 oz): Morgan Silver Dollar ($135)
  • 40% Silver (0.1479 oz): Kennedy Half 1965-1970 ($37)
  • 99.9% Silver (1 oz): American Silver Eagle ($295 with gold bar included)

Non-Silver (Base Metal) Coins:

  • All post-1971 coins (copper-nickel clad)
  • Nickels (75% copper, 25% nickel)
  • Pennies (zinc core with copper plating)
  • Modern quarters, half dollars, dollars

Why Choose Silver?

  • Investment Value: You're buying precious metal that retains value
  • Collectibility: Historic coins are more sought-after
  • Dual Purpose: Functional tool + silver investment
  • Prestige: Premium feel and appearance

Why Choose Non-Silver?

  • Lower Cost: More affordable entry point
  • Functionality: Works exactly the same as silver coins
  • Modern Convenience: Current coinage you might actually handle

Do you offer sets of bundles?

Yes! We offer several ways to save on multiple coins:

Free Shipping Threshold: Orders over $100 ship free, so buying 2-3 coins together saves on shipping.

Popular Combinations:

  • Starter Kit ($95): Micro Nickel + Regular Quarter + Hollow Penny = Try three size options
  • MicroSD Collection ($145): Micro Nickel + Kennedy Half + Ike Dollar = Three MicroSD-compatible sizes
  • Historical Set ($219): Cold War Nickel + Franklin Half + Walking Liberty = Three iconic spy/historical coins
  • Silver Stack ($205): Three 90% silver coins of your choice = Precious metal + functionality

Custom Orders: Want to create your own set? Contact us at bdereu@gmail.com for custom bundle pricing on 5+ coins.

Wholesale: Retailers, museums, or bulk buyers can inquire about wholesale pricing for orders of 10+ units.

Shipping & Orders

How long does shipping take?

Most orders ship within 1-2 business days and arrive within 3-5 business days total.

Processing Time: 1-2 business days (Monday-Friday)
We inspect each coin before shipping to ensure quality. Orders placed on weekends ship Monday.

Delivery Time (within USA):

  • USPS First Class: 3-5 business days after shipping
  • USPS Priority Mail: 2-3 business days after shipping (orders $100+)

Total Time: Most customers receive orders within 5-7 business days of ordering.

Tracking: All orders include tracking numbers emailed when your package ships. You can track your order through USPS.com.

Free Shipping:Orders $100+ automatically upgrade to Priority Mail with free shipping!

Do you ship internationally?

No we do not.

What if my order is lost or damaged?

We stand behind every order. If something goes wrong, we'll make it right.

Lost Packages:

  • If tracking shows your package is lost or stuck, contact us immediately
  • We'll file a claim with USPS and typically ship a replacement at no charge
  • Most "lost" packages are simply delayed and do arrive—we'll work with you

Damaged Items:

  • Inspect your order upon arrival
  • If anything is damaged, photograph it and email us within 48 hours
  • We'll send a replacement immediately

Wrong Item:

  • If we shipped the wrong coin, we'll send the correct one at no charge
  • You can keep the wrong item or return it (we pay return shipping)

Bottom Line:We're a small family business. If you're not happy, we'll fix it. Email bdereu@gmail.com and we'll resolve any issue quickly.

What is your return policy?

30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not happy, return it for a full refund.

Return Conditions:

  • Items must be returned within 30 days of delivery
  • Coins must be in original condition (not damaged or modified)
  • Include all original items (coin + disassembly ring)
  • Original packaging not required but recommended

Return Process:

  1. Email bdereu@gmail.com and let us know you want to return an item
  2. We'll provide a return address and any special instructions
  3. Ship the item back (customer pays return shipping unless defective)
  4. Once we receive and inspect the return, we'll refund your payment
  5. Refunds process within 3-5 business days

Return Shipping: Customer pays return shipping unless the item is defective or we made an error. We recommend insured shipping for expensive items.

Exchanges: Want to exchange for a different coin? Just let us know in your return email and we'll coordinate the exchange.

Care & Maintenanceent

How do I care for my hollow coins?

Hollow coins require minimal maintenance but benefit from proper care:

Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from excessive humidity
  • Coin holders, small pouches, or display cases work well
  • Keep disassembly rings with their corresponding coins
  • For silver coins, consider anti-tarnish storage to preserve luster

Cleaning:

  • DO: Wipe gently with soft cloth if needed
  • DO: Rinse with water if dirty (dry thoroughly after)
  • DON'T: Use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
  • DON'T: Polish silver coins aggressively (reduces value)
  • DON'T: Put in ultrasonic cleaners (can loosen fit)

Handling:

  • Handle by edges when possible (like all collectible coins)
  • Open and close carefully—don't force anything
  • Don't drop repeatedly on hard surfaces
  • Keep away from extreme temperatures

Silver Coins:Some tarnishing is normal and doesn't affect function. Many collectors prefer natural patina. Only clean if cosmetic appearance matters to you.

What if my coin becomes loose or won't stay closed?

This is extremely rare but can occasionally happen with extended use.

If your coin loosens:

  • Contact us at bdereu@gmail.com immediately
  • Describe the issue and when you purchased the coin
  • We'll either provide guidance to fix it or replace the coin

Lifetime Warranty: All hollow coins are covered by our lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. If the friction-fit fails due to manufacturing issues (not damage/misuse), we'll replace the coin at no charge.

Prevention:

  • Don't force the halves together or apart
  • Open only using the disassembly ring
  • Avoid dropping repeatedly on hard surfaces
  • Don't expose to extreme temperature changes

In 15+ years of production, loose coins are incredibly rare. When they do occur, we handle them promptly under warranty.

I lost my disassembly ring. Can I get a replacement?

Yes! Contact us and we'll send you a replacement disassembly ring.

Replacement Process:

  • Email bdereu@gmail.com with your order number (if you have it)
  • Let us know which coin(s) you need rings for
  • We'll send replacement ring(s) for $5 each (includes shipping)

Universal vs. Specific: Most disassembly rings work with multiple coin sizes, but some coins require specific ring sizes. Let us know your coin type and we'll send the right one.

Prevention Tip: Keep disassembly rings attached to a keychain or stored in a specific location so they don't get lost.

Technical Details

How much can you actually fit inside a hollow coin?

Interior capacity varies by coin size:

Penny (19mm diameter):

  • Very small capacity—think tightly folded note about 1" square
  • Handwritten codes or passwords on small paper
  • 1-2 small pills
  • Microfilm (if going classic Cold War style)

Nickel (21mm diameter):

  • MicroSD cards fit (snugly)
  • Folded notes up to 2" x 2" (folded 2-3 times)
  • Small quantity of pills
  • Thin items like guitar picks

Quarter (24mm diameter):

  • Folded notes (quarter is thinner, so less depth)
  • Codes or passwords on paper
  • NOT MicroSD compatible (too thin)

Half Dollar (30mm diameter):

  • MicroSD cards fit well
  • Larger folded documents (3" x 3" folded)
  • More pills or small items
  • Multiple layers of paper

Large Dollars (38mm diameter):

  • MicroSD cards with room to spare
  • Multiple MicroSD cards
  • Larger documents folded
  • Most flexible capacity

MicroSD Data Capacity:Modern MicroSD cards can hold 1TB+ of data. That's equivalent to 500,000+ pages of text, thousands of high-res photos, or hundreds of hours of video—all hidden in a coin.

How much do hollow coins weigh compared to solid coins?

Hollow coins weigh slightly less than solid coins, but the difference is small:

Weight Comparisons:

  • Solid Nickel: 5.0 grams
    Hollow Nickel: ~4.5-4.7 grams (10-12% lighter)
  • Solid Quarter: 5.67 grams
    Hollow Quarter: ~5.0-5.3 grams
  • Solid Half Dollar: 11.34 grams
    Hollow Half Dollar: ~9.5-10.5 grams

Detection: The weight difference is NOT noticeable by hand. You'd need a precision scale to detect it. This is one reason hollow coins were effective for espionage—they feel completely normal.

What Changes the Weight:

  • How much material is removed in machining
  • What (if anything) is stored inside
  • Coin composition (silver is heavier than copper-nickel)

Are MicroSD cards safe inside hollow coins?

Yes, MicroSD cards are well protected inside hollow coins.

Protection Provided:

  • Physical Protection: Metal coin protects card from crushing, bending
  • Dust/Dirt: Sealed interior keeps card clean
  • Moisture: Friction-fit provides good (not perfect) water resistance
  • Detection: Metal coin shields card from casual detection

Risks to Be Aware Of:

  • Not Waterproof: Hollow coins are water-resistant, not waterproof. Don't submerge them for extended periods
  • Not Magnetic Protection: The metal doesn't shield from strong magnetic fields (rare concern for SD cards anyway)
  • X-Ray Visible: Security scanners can see MicroSD cards inside coins

Best Practices:

  • Keep coins with MicroSD cards dry
  • Don't expose to extreme heat (car dashboard in summer, etc.)
  • Back up critical data elsewhere too (never rely on single storage)
  • Check cards periodically to ensure they still work

Data Integrity:MicroSD cards are solid-state storage with no moving parts. When properly stored in hollow coins and kept dry, they can reliably store data for years.