How do I clean an old coin

[frozentundra]

Hi, I went to a beach today and found a very old coin (based on size and width).

It is very dirty and I can't read anything on it.

I don't want to scrub the coin with my hands in case I ruin it.

Any advice on how and what to use to clean the coin would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, and Happy Easter to all!

 

[grumpysrb]

What is it made of? There are anumber of thinks you can try. You can try electrolysis. I make the gadget from old cellphone chargers. Clip the end off and add alligator clips of the proper polarity, positive(RED) and negative(BLACK). With a small jar put hot water mixed with either salt or washing soda. Salt seems to work best. It makes the water more conductive . Using a clothes pin clip a nail, long enough to rise above the top of the jar, and clip the positive end to it.Clip the negative end to the edge of the coin and plug the charger in. You should see the coin begin to fizz. Allow to do this for about five minutes and unplug the charger and remove the coin. Rinse with fresh water. If the coating has come off enough your done. If not try another five minutes. For clad I will use baking soda to polish off the rest of the coating after most has come off in the glass. Nickle coins can tolerate alot of electrolysis, but copper cannot so be careful. It will dissolve copper after too much of this and too much will turn nickle coins gray, or a burnt color. I don't do old coins if I can read the date on them.

You can also try vinegar, which will also dis ole copper if soaked too long.

Good luck!

 

[frozentundra]

Hi Grumpy,

Thanks for helping me again!

I've posted 2 questions, and you helped me both times.

I cleaned it with distilled water and q-tips, just enough to see the bust and date and on the reverse to see one cent.

I found an 1818 large cent.

To say I'm pumped is an understatement.

I'm new (about a month in) and was starting to get discouraged until Easter morning.

Thanks again for all your help, When I figure out how to post a picture I will.

Mike

 

[jbr13]

Wow, Mike that is an awesome find, congrats!!!



Jason

 

[frozentundra]

Here are 2 pics

 

[William-NM]

Wow, 1818 - almost 200 years that coins been waiting for you to get around to finding it!

 

[ScoWin]

That's an awesome find Mike!!!
Hard to believe tge treasures hidden under our feet just waiting for us to find them.

 

[hunter_46356]

Just read an online article in Western and Eastern Treasure Magazine about cleaning a copper coin. The guy soaked it in mineral oil for literally 3 months took it out and used a tooth brush to clean of loosened dirt and corrosion then soaked it for a few more before he finally removed all of the gook. Finished it by picking the last bit away with mineral soaked wooden tooth picks. Absolutely no damage and mineral oil does not change or remove the coins natural patina. It also leave some what of a protective coat on surface as copper reacts to the air after years of being buried. Just relaying .

 

[frozentundra]

Thanks everyone, I appreciate all your help and comments.

I started soaking it in olive oil and I can see a difference already.

Hunter thanks for the info, looking at my coin, it will take a long time to clean, but I'm not in a rush.

I also read it could take 4 weeks to a year, but it is gentle on the coin and doesn't damage it.

Only time will tell.

 

[bpasero]

I love this forum...I learn something new every day. Thank you to those experienced detectorists who take the time to share our vast experience and knowledge with those of us just getting started...it is a HUGE help.

 

[senda]

It's a wonderful find!! good job, congrats. this is a very good start, you follow this way
best regards

 

[ScoWin]

Hey FrozenTundra...

I figured you'd be here over the weekend, and rather than wait until Monday to show you, I'd post a pic for you instead. I found this in my front yard this afternoon. In case the date isn't clear enough, it's 1964. I think my AT Pro is a silver dime magnet.