While clearing out an elderly relatives stuff we came across some silver certificates in pristine condition. They look to be worth $6 or so each, based on eBay auctions. How should I package such a note so that it arrives in pristine/uncirculated condition? I searched the web and only found a method that would cost way more than the value of the notes.
Am I okay putting them in an envelope within a padded envelope? Or does anyone have suggestions as to what is usually done?
When I did this years ago with a mis-cut, mis-printed $10 bill, I put in a plastic currency holder and sandwiched it between two sheets of sturdy cardboard which was cut to fit the envelope. It was sent USPS and I marked it “Do Not Fold”. It was received in perfect condition.
That is probably the best option for your case. Just note to whoever gets them that you have not provided for long-term storage, just for safe shipping. For longer-term you need specifically something PVC-free and/or archival in nature which could cost more than needed for what you are doing.
Absolute-last-ditch-to-save-costs ------- use a heavier plastic bag such as a ziplock as a holder and then sandwich that inside the two pieces of cardboard. Not the best by far but just from Point A to Point B it works fairly well.