Yes, it is generally OK to clean silver coins. However, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure you do not damage the coins in the process. Silver coins are a strong metal, but they can still be scratched easily.
For best results, use a solution of one part mild dishwashing liquid to 10 parts warm water to gently clean silver coins. Soak the coins in the solution for 30 minutes or gently scrub them with a soft-bristled toothbrush (never a metal-bristled brush!) to remove dirt and residue.
Be sure to rinse the coins afterwards in clean, warm water. If you want to add some extra shine to the silver coins, use a solution of 4 parts warm water to 1 part white vinegar. Soak the coins in this solution for 1-2 minutes and then rinse them in warm water after to remove any remaining vinegar residue.
Finally, air dry the silver coins and you’re done! Keep in mind that if your silver coins are valuable, it is best to leave it to a professional numismatic or conservator who is experienced in cleaning and preserving metal coins.
Table of Contents
Does cleaning silver coins decrease value?
Cleaning silver coins can actually decrease their value, even drastically in some cases. Silver coins are valuable because of their age and condition, and when those attributes are changed, often the coins’ overall value decreases.
Coins that have been cleaned aren’t worth as much as coins that haven’t been cleaned, as their “un-cleaned” counterparts are more desirable to collectors. Cleaning silver coins also causes damage in some cases, like scratching the surface of a coin, which can further reduce its value.
Silver coins that haven’t been circulated can lose luster if not stored correctly, so collectors often find coins with tarnish more desirable than those that have been cleaned. Taking all of this into account, it is typically best to avoid cleaning silver coins as it can dramatically decrease the coins’ value.
How do you clean silver coins without losing value?
When it comes to cleaning silver coins without losing value, it is important to be as gentle and non-abrasive as possible. One of the most effective methods is to use a mild solution of lukewarm water and a mild dish detergent or soap.
Once the coin is wet, gently rub it with a soft cloth or cotton ball to remove any dirt or grime. If the coin is still not clean, you can use a soft-bristles toothbrush and carefully apply a cleaner to the face of the coin.
Be very careful not to clean too hard or too vigorously, as it can scratch and damage the coin. After cleaning with a soft cloth or toothbrush, it is important to rinse the coin off with lukewarm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
If you choose to use a chemical cleaner, make sure you research it thoroughly and use it with caution to avoid damaging the coin. After cleaning the coin, you should apply a thin coat of wax or polish to help protect the coin and prevent further tarnish.
In conclusion, when it comes to cleaning silver coins without lowering the value, it is best to be gentle, use non-abrasive cleaning methods and chemicals, and protect it with a thin coat of wax or polish.
How much does cleaning devalue a coin?
The amount that cleaning a coin will devalue it depends on the types of cleaning that were done and the degree that it was done. Generally, any kind of cleaning will reduce the worth of collector coins, as the original patina and surface condition plays a large part in their value.
However, if a coin has been covered with a deep patina and looks extremely dirty, it is better to clean it mildly to see the underlying details of the coin. In some cases, this can actually increase the value of a coin as the surface details can be seen more clearly.
If a coin is cleaned in an aggressive way, such as with harsh chemical solutions, scrubbing, and intense buffing, it will significantly reduce its value as it will strip away the original surface details, leaving the coin looking unnatural and almost artificial.
Coins that are cleaned in this manner will look unnatural and suffer an almost complete devaluation.
At the end of the day, it is important to remember that cleaning a coin is not necessarily a bad thing, depending on the degree of cleaning that was done and the condition of the coin itself. If a coin has been heavily patinated, it is better to clean it mildly in order to reveal the underlying details that can potentially increase its value.
Without proper understanding and experience, however, it is best to avoid any kind of cleaning as it is easy to cause irreparable damage.
Why shouldn’t you clean your coins?
Cleaning coins is generally not recommended because coins that were made in recent years are usually made of a material called ‘clad’, which is a combination of copper and other metals. If you clean your coins, the cleaning agent you use can damage the surface of the coin and make it appear less glossy or even corroded.
Additionally, if the coins have previously been circulated, traces of the original patina (a natural aged look) the coins may have had, could be lost or damaged permanently. Coins with especially worn or damaged surfaces, or coins that have special design features, may be significantly devalued or even completely lose their commemorative or numismatic value if they are cleaned or excessively polished.
How do you tell if a silver coin has been cleaned?
To tell if a silver coin has been cleaned, first look at the surface to determine if the coin appears to be excessively shiny. Silver coins made by official mints are usually dull and gray in appearance, and any coin that has been significantly polished may come off looking too shiny in comparison.
Additionally, look for any evidence of scratching which may be caused by physical cleaning. Finally, note any visible coloration that makes the coin look cleaner than usual as this could indicate a chemical cleaning.
To further verify, use a magnifying glass to take a closer look at the coin. If the cleaning is detectable to the eye, it may make artifacts and designs on the coin appear blurry or slightly distorted.
Alternatively, if the coin has been cleaned more recently, its surface may have a more even texture and the patterns on the coin may seem unusually crisp.
Does vinegar damage silver coins?
No, vinegar does not damage silver coins. In fact, vinegar can actually be used to help clean silver coins and make them look their best. When used in moderation, vinegar can safely remove any tarnish or dirt build up on silver coins, leaving them looking their best.
Before cleaning with vinegar, it is important to ensure that the coins are free of dirt and dust and any residues from prior disinfecting, polishing, or use of metal surfaces. To clean with vinegar, create a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts water.
Using a clean, soft cloth, gently scrub the mixture onto the surface of the coins and rinse with clean water. Finally, use a jewelry polishing cloth to buff the coins to a shine. With care, vinegar can be used safely to clean silver coins.
How do professionals clean coins?
The most preferred method of cleaning coins by professionals is first to soak them in a gentle cleaning solution made with a mild dish detergent and warm water. This will help to break down the dirt, grime, and contaminants that have built up on the coins over time.
After soaking the coins, the dirt can be easily wiped away with a soft, lint-free cloth.
When wiping away the dirt and debris from the coins, it is essential to use light pressure, taking care not to damage the coins. To help protect the coins from scratches and other damage, it is also a good idea to use a brush with soft bristles, as well as tweezers or rubber gloves as needed.
Finally, after cleaning, it is always a good idea to protect the coins with a protective coating. This can be done by using a commercialized coin cleaner, or even a specialized wax or sealant. This will help prevent further damage caused by dust, dirt, and other environmental contaminants.
Does hydrogen peroxide clean coins?
Yes, hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean coins. To clean coins with hydrogen peroxide, you can mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide with white vinegar in a glass bowl. Soak the coins in the mixture for 15-20 minutes, then rinse them with warm water and pat them dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning with hydrogen peroxide is a safe and effective way to remove dirt, grime, and tarnish from your coins without damaging them. Additionally, hydrogren peroxide is an effective disinfectant, so it can also be used to remove germs and bacteria on coins and currency.
What liquid cleans coins the best?
Salt and vinegar is one of the best liquids to use in order to clean coins. The combination of the salt and acidic vinegar helps to safely and effectively remove any dirt or grime from the coins. To clean coins with salt and vinegar, prepare a mixture of four parts water to one part white vinegar.
Put the mixture in a container, add a spoonful of salt and stir until completely dissolved. Put the coins in the container and leave for 8-10 minutes. After a few minutes, use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime.
Rinse the cleaned coins in cold water then buff dry with a soft cloth. Salt and vinegar is an effective and safe way to clean coins.
What does PCGS use to clean coins?
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) uses a variety of techniques and tools to clean coins, including physical methods like scrubbing, washing and tumbling, and chemical methods like dipping and toning.
Scrubbing is a physical method that uses a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to remove dirt and debris from the surface of a coin. Washing a coin is a physical method that uses running water and a mild soap to clean coins.
Tumbling is a physical method that uses a rotating drum filled with a cleaning agent and abrasives like corn cob or aluminum oxide, to polish the surface of coins.
Dipping is a chemical method that uses specific chemicals, such as sulfuric acid, to remove tarnish from coins without affecting their surfaces. Toning is also a chemical method that uses caustic chemicals, such as hydrochloric acid, to subtly darken coin surfaces and enhance their natural patinas.
PCGS also uses special instruments to authenticate and grade coins, such as microscopes and other optical instruments, as well as magnifying lamps, scales and calipers.
What happens if you leave coins in vinegar?
If you leave coins in vinegar, you might be surprised by the reaction that takes place. As the vinegar, or acetic acid, interacts with metal, it causes a chemical reaction known as oxidation. This reaction can result in the surface of the coins becoming corroded or discolored.
In some cases, the reaction will cause the surface of the coins to bubble or fizz, and the coins may become pitted or pitted, as the acidic solution eats away at the metal surface. This may decrease the value of the coins over time if they are not taken out of the vinegar right away and cleaned and/or stabilized properly.
Additionally, coins that have been sitting in vinegar can often be difficult to remove, so it is important to take them out soon after they were exposed to the acid. To minimize any damage, it is best to rinse the coins with clean water and dry them off immediately after taking them out of the vinegar.
