Important Note: Cleaning coins, especially collectible ones, can significantly decrease their value. Hero Bullion states that cleaning can decrease a coin’s value by as much as 50-80%. Professional numismatists and coin dealers generally advise against cleaning coins unless absolutely necessary and only by professional services. If you have a valuable or rare silver coin that is heavily tarnished or dirty, consider seeking professional advice or conservation services from reputable companies like ANACS, NGC, or PCGS before attempting any at-home cleaning methods.
However, if you have a silver coin of low numismatic value and wish to clean it for aesthetic reasons, several methods can be employed.
- Mild Soap and Water: A non-abrasive method involving soaking the coin in a solution of mild dish soap and distilled water, followed by gentle brushing if needed. Rinse with distilled water and pat dry.
Caution: These methods carry a higher risk of scratching the coin and reducing its value.
- Baking Soda Paste: Create a stiff paste with baking soda and water, gently rub onto the coin, rinse, and dry.
- Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil: This method uses an electrolytic reaction to remove tarnish, [Arm & Hammer notes it is done without scratches or heavy scrubbing] . Place the coin on aluminum foil in a bowl, sprinkle with baking soda, add hot water, let sit, rinse, and dry.
- Toothpaste: Gently rub a small amount of plain, non-gel toothpaste on a soft cloth onto the coin until tarnish is removed, then rinse and dry.
- Lemon Juice: Soak coins for a few minutes, rinse, and dry. Combining with baking soda can help remove stubborn patina, [YouTube video mentions that baking soda helps remove the patina].
- White Vinegar: Soak coins in white vinegar, then rinse and dry. Adding a bit of baking soda will make it stronger but cause fizzing.
For valuable or rare silver coins, professional conservation services are recommended to remove contaminants and stabilize the surface without damage or value loss. Examples include:
- ANACS Conservation Service: Removes PVC, debris, and stains.
- NGC Coin Conservation: Removes harmful contaminants and improves appearance.
- PCGS Restoration Service: Removes haze and milk spots.
Prioritize preservation for valuable coins. Proceed with caution and consult a professional if unsure.
Does Coca-Cola clean silver coins?
Thanks for asking. NO! Coca cola is highly acidic and will destroy your coins. If you really need to clean any coin use only distilled water and a drop of dishwashing detergent. Let a coin sit in this for a while. If necessary to dislodge any stubborn dirt use a soft brush. Dry the coin thoroughly before you put into a flip.
What is the best home remedy for polishing silver?
Good point! Quickly restore your jewelry or tableware with vinegar, water and baking soda. This cleaning agent is a great option for many things, including your tarnished silver. Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl of lukewarm water. Let the silver soak for two to three hours.