When deciding how to clean a coin, it’s crucial to distinguish between everyday coins and potentially valuable collectibles. Improper cleaning of collectible coins can significantly decrease their value. Always consult with a professional coin grader before attempting to clean antique or valuable coins.
- Warm soapy water: Soak the coin in warm water with a squirt of dish soap, [according to Real Simple] . Gently rub the coin with your fingers or a soft-bristled toothbrush while submerged to loosen dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the coin under warm running water to remove all soap residue, then rinse again with distilled water if possible to avoid chlorine residue.
- Air dry: Place the coin on a clean, lint-free cloth and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid rubbing or patting the coin dry, as this can cause scratches.
- Vinegar and salt: Create a solution of white vinegar and salt (1 cup vinegar with 1 tablespoon salt). Soak the coins for about 5-15 minutes, remove, and wipe with a cloth or paper towel to remove tarnish. Rinse thoroughly with water, then with distilled water.
- Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste and gently scrub with your fingers or a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly.
- Ketchup: The acids in ketchup can help clean copper coins. Apply ketchup, rub gently with a soft brush, then rinse well.
- Coke: Coke contains phosphoric acid and can quickly remove tarnish. Soak for at least 5 minutes, then rinse and gently rub the surface with a paper towel, [according to wikiHow].
Important: These methods can be abrasive and potentially damaging to the coin’s surface or patina, especially if done improperly or too vigorously.
- Olive oil: Soaking coins, particularly copper or bronze, in olive oil can help loosen dirt and corrosion over an extended period (weeks or even months). The coins can then be rinsed with water and gently brushed. However, prolonged exposure to olive oil can be mildly acidic and potentially etch the coin’s surface, [notes Reddit].
- Hydrogen peroxide: Can remove stains and tarnish. Soak coins in diluted hydrogen peroxide for up to 24 hours, then rinse and pat dry.
- Commercial cleaners: Can be effective for heavy tarnish but should be used with extreme caution, wearing gloves and safety glasses. Dip coins for a very short duration (around 5 seconds) and immediately rinse thoroughly.
- Harsh chemicals: Avoid strong acids, metal polishes, and jewelry cleaners, as they can cause irreversible damage and reduce the coin’s value.
- Abrasive materials: Do not use steel wool, wire brushes, or other abrasive materials, as they can scratch the coin’s surface.
- Vigorous scrubbing: Excessive rubbing can lead to fine scratches (hairlines) that negatively impact the coin’s appearance and grade.
- Toothpaste: While it may seem like a gentle abrasive, toothpaste can be too harsh for some coins and potentially cause damage.
- Avoid cleaning collectible coins if possible: Their value is often linked to their original condition and patina.
- When cleaning non-collectible coins, prioritize gentle methods first, such as warm water and dish soap, according to Real Simple.
- Exercise caution and always rinse thoroughly after using any cleaning solution.
- If unsure about a coin’s value or how to clean it, seek professional advice from a numismatist or coin grading service.
Which liquid cleans coins the best?
Acetone is the only thing you can use that will do anything and not mess with the coin.