It’s tempting to clean your coins, especially if they’re covered in dirt or grime. However, [according to APMEX] , cleaning coins can permanently damage their surfaces and significantly reduce their value , especially for collectible coins. For rare or valuable coins, it’s generally best to avoid cleaning them and consult a professional coin grading service if you have concerns about their condition.
If you are determined to clean a coin and it is not considered valuable, here are some methods you can try:
- Fill a bowl with warm water and mix in a squirt of dish soap.
- Submerge the coin and gently rub it between your fingers to loosen dirt and grime.
- If needed, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the coin while submerged in the soapy water.
- Rinse the coin with clean water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.
Methods beyond soapy water include using vinegar and salt, lemon juice and salt, hydrogen peroxide, cola, or ketchup. Commercial cleaning solutions are also available but are often acidic and require caution, including wearing gloves and safety glasses.
Avoid cleaning valuable coins as it can reduce their worth. Always test a cleaning method on a low-value coin first. Handle coins by their edges, wear gloves, and store them properly to protect their surface. The aim is to remove loose dirt, not make the coin look new. If in doubt, consult a professional. More details on cleaning methods can be found on [wikiHow].
How to easily clean coins at home?
I can help with that. Almost nothing so we add salt to the vinegar. Add as much salt as you can with lots of mixing to make a saturated. Solution once again we get tarnished penny and dip it in.
What cleans a coin the best?
Thanks for asking. A soak in warm, soapy water followed by a rinse and air-dry is probably the safest method, and it’ll remove loose dirt and surface grime. A soak in acetone (pure, not nail polish remover) followed by an air-dry will work for more stubborn organic gunk.
What is the safest way to clean your coins?
If you do polish a coin to remove dirt, use mild soap and water. Once you’ve washed the coin, pat it dry with a soft towel. Brushing or rubbing can scratch a coin’s delicate surface.