This project was built and designed by Caleb from YouCanMakeThisToo. It’s a precise, functional coin storage box made specifically for slabbed coins, combining clean joinery with thoughtful design for collectors.
Built from quarter sawn white oak and finished with a vibrant dye, the box highlights the beauty of hardwood while offering safe, stylish storage. Whether you’re a coin collector or just looking for a unique woodworking challenge, this project delivers both form and function.
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Why Build a Coin Box?
Coin collectors often store their collections in protective plastic slabs. These slabs come in varying sizes, which can make off-the-shelf storage options impractical.
This custom box is built to accommodate those needs. Caleb designs it with the exact dimensions in mind, allowing for a clean, tailored fit that keeps everything secure without rattling or crowding.
Choosing Materials That Add Value
For the main body, Caleb uses quarter sawn white oak. This hardwood is known for its dimensional stability and distinctive grain, making it a great fit for fine boxes.
If you’re not equipped to work with rough stock, pre-surfaced boards are an option. The key is selecting pieces that are straight and flat, as this will save time during joinery and keep the final product square.
Preparing the Wood and Cutting Miters
The first step is milling the oak to final thickness. Caleb ensures the stock is smooth and flat to support accurate miter joints, which are the main construction method used.
Using a table saw and miter gauge, he cuts each corner to a precise 45-degree angle. These angled joints give the box a seamless appearance, but they require precision—so Caleb recommends making test cuts with scrap first to dial in your settings.
Adding Dados for Functionality
Next, dados are cut for the box’s top and bottom panels. These shallow grooves help the panels sit securely without glue or hardware, improving the structure while keeping the outside clean.
Caleb uses a rip blade to cut these grooves, as it leaves a flat-bottomed dado for a tight, professional fit. This step also allows the top to be added as a sliding panel if desired.
Assembly Tips and Tricks
Before gluing, the inside corners of the miter joints are taped off to prevent glue from squeezing out where it’s hard to clean. It’s a small tip that makes a big difference during finishing.
The box is dry fit first, then glued and closed using painter’s tape or clamps. Caleb notes that painter’s tape can apply enough pressure for small boxes like this, making the process more manageable and less intimidating for those without a full clamp set.
Handling Finishing Touches
To match the Tennessee theme, the box is stained with orange dye. Unlike pigmented stains, dye soaks into the wood and allows the oak’s natural grain to show through while still achieving bold color.
Once the dye dries, a few coats of lacquer are applied to protect the surface. This topcoat adds a slight sheen and ensures the box is durable enough for frequent handling.
The finish is applied evenly with light sanding between coats for smoothness. The result is a box that not only looks great but also feels great in the hand—a key factor for any item meant to be opened and closed frequently.
Tips for a Successful Build
Caleb shares a few helpful reminders throughout the build process:
- Measure slab sizes first. Not all coin slabs are identical, so designing around your own collection is key.
- Test your miters. Slight inaccuracies can throw off the entire box—scrap test pieces help dial in the angles.
- Tape inside corners. It makes cleanup faster and results cleaner during glue-up.
- Take your time. Especially with smaller projects, a bit of patience can mean the difference between average and excellent results.
A Gift-Ready Project That Shows Care
Whether it’s for personal use or a collector’s gift, this box feels elevated due to the material selection, color choice, and clean lines. With no exposed fasteners and a tight, symmetrical profile, it feels like something you’d find in a high-end store.
Caleb’s method makes the process approachable without sacrificing quality. The build also opens the door for customization—engraving the lid, adding a felt-lined interior, or even adjusting dimensions for different collectible items.
Please support Caleb by visiting his website: https://www.ycmt2.com/.