Only if the coins have more sentimental value to you and you don't plan on selling them. Generally, it is better to leave your antique metal currency alone than it is to try and erase all the grime and grit off of those coins. Cleaning or polishing rare coins devalues them.
Should Coin Collectors Clean Their Coins? Before cleaning old coins, consider that appraisers and coin experts suggest not cleaning collectible coins yourself because the coins may lose their value.
Even though it's counterintuitive, you should never clean a coin, as it can significantly reduce its value. Even coins that have substantial dirt, tarnishing, or toning should be kept in their original condition.
Pour your coins into one bowl and fill with cold water until the money is well covered. In the other bowl, pour about 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Dip the toothbrush into the bowl of baking soda and scrub the coins. The baking soda should remove any dirt and grime and won't scratch the metal.
Distilled water is recommended as tap water contains chlorine. The coin is dipped into olive oil which according to Hudgeons, works best for common copper or bronze coins.
Generally, it is better to leave your antique metal currency alone than it is to try and erase all the grime and grit off of those coins. Cleaning or polishing rare coins devalues them. So, if you're planning on selling them, get an appraisal before attempting to clean your coins.
Don't clean your coins! Not only does this cut their value by as much as half (or possibly even more), but it will be an immediate deal-breaker for many dealers who would've otherwise wanted to buy your coins if only they were left in their original condition.
Since it was first produced and sold in the United States in the mid-1800s, baking soda has been a popular product with many useful purposes. One of these is to clean certain valuable items in a safe, effective way. As for whether or not baking soda damages silver coins, the short answer is typically no.
The combination of light scraping, soaking in oil and rubbing with fabric basically removed this sludgey coating. Since WD-40 is volatile (and not cheap) I sprayed just enough to cover the coin in a porcelain screw-cap container. The final result is shown. The little brownish spots are what is left of the coating.
So, we mentioned that silver reacts with sulfur from the atmosphere to form silver sulfide (Ag2S), a black chemical known as 'tarnish.
Most Cleaning is Destructive: It Can Literally Change the Surface of a Coin. Any cleaning that requires rubbing leaves microscopic scratches. They are not apparent to the naked eye, but a collector will see them. A collector will look for them.
The value of silver has historically increased over time, so keeping your coins for a longer period may result in a greater return on investment. On the other hand, if you have a short-term need for cash, cashing in your silver coins may be the best option.
CoinFacts (PCGS mobile app) Many coin collectors say the first place to start for any coin collector or enthusiast is with PCGS — offering a variety of different coin-collecting apps for both iOS and Android. PCGS claims they're the industry standard for grading and valuing coins.
Make sure your coins have been cleared of all dirt, debris and other objects prior to visiting the kiosk to ensure a successful transaction. Items like food, screws, dirty or sticky coins and other objects will jam the machine.
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.
Coke and off-brand colas will quickly remove the tarnish. Just don't drink the coke afterward. Coke contains phosphoric acid that cleans the oxides. Try a variety of citrus juices to see which works best or simply let your pennies soak in lemon juice.
Coins that are obviously dirty can be run under water (with a very mild detergent) and left to air dry. A short soak in olive oil may remove unwanted gunge. For cleaning corroded coins the damage is already done, they will forever show pitting into the coin surface. This is as far as anyone should go with cleaning.