coin cleaning

[gmuny$]

I found a coin or possibly a token that is the size of a large cent at the Chesapeake a couple of months ago. It was very deep and is very encrusted with small stones and rust colored. I soaked it in olive oil for weeks then ran it through a tumbler about 5 times. Some of the junk came off but still can't tell what it is. Is there any chemical that I can use to clean this.

 

[crackerjuan]

can anyone throw up a link on how to make a homemade electrolysis to take of gunk from saltwater finds an coins, thanks john

 

[UK Brian]

Its very easy.
You need a twelve volt transformer (could be off a train set) or twelve volt battery.
A glass jar (jamjar will do but fairly wide).
Two clips
One stainless steel strip or bit of S/S cutlery but not your wifes best as it will eat away in time.

Fill jar with warm water and solution, clip coin to one wire from transformer/battery and drop in the jar. Clip your stainless strip to the other wire and place in other side of jar. Don't allow them to touch !
Switch on and in no time you will see bubbles rising from the coin. Keep watching as you can do more damage/fry the item in a few minutes.

Most suggest salt as the solution. Some add lemon juice. Don't use salt as it breaks down and gives off chloride gas. This will damage your lungs unless you work outside with a breeze blowing away from you. Baking soda is cheap and far safer. Depending on the size of the container you might need one, two or three spoonfulls.

 

[JMW]

Important point - the negative lead always goes to the coin, otherwise the coin will be eaten away/dissolve into the solution.