Coin Cleaning, a serious problem

[errorman]

I always wandered is there a safe way to clean a coin. I have been collecting for many years,and I have several silver coins that are tarnished,with a black substance on the fields. I don;t know if this is just oxidation from the enviroment.

I have some Walkers that I would like to clean. What would be the best solution for this problem , is there anything on the market that is safe to use.It's a very frustrating situation for me

Thank you and suggestions are helpful
I have been using this a pic is shown,but I stoped using it, because it was scratching the surface of the coin
JIM Alex Balester

[rockdude]

It's best not to use anything but if you have to, use acetone, soak them, do not rub or brush them.
Tony

[errorman]

Originally Posted by rockdude

It's best not to use anything but if you have to, use acetone, soak them, do not rub or brush them.

Thanks Angelo for that advice.
JIM ALEX BALESTER

[coinhunter]

Whatever you do don't touch the coins at all, I don't believe in tampering with them, you may lose the value altogether if you use something.




You never know something may go wrong with the cleaning process.

My suggestion leave them alone.

Rich

[rockdude]

Originally Posted by coinhunter

Whatever you do don't touch the coins at all, I don't believe in tampering with them, you may lose the value altogether if you use something.




You never know something may go wrong with the cleaning process.

My suggestion leave them alone.

Rich

A safer and less volatile product than acetone is Methyl Ethyl Ketone MET,

[coinfello]

i would say acetone is a safe solution.

[rockdude]

The first rule of coin cleaning is: If you don't know its value, don't clean it, or if you think it is valuable, don't clean it, or if you know it is valuable, don't clean it. In other words, do not clean your discovered coins; leave them untouched and stored in proper holders. The reason for this is that coin dealers and collectors are interested in purchasing coins in their original condition and natural state of preservation.

The second rule of cleaning coins is take your coins to a professional do the cleaning. Professional dealers often offer a coin cleaning service using a method called "dripping" that should not be attempted by an amateur. Always handle your coins by the edges to avoid fingerprints on the surfaces.

The third rule of cleaning is, if your coins are so corroded that the date and details cannot be determined, consult a professional for advice before attempting to clean the coins to avoid or minimize possible damage.

The fourth rule is, if you absolutely, positively must clean your discovered coins, you should clean them with the least harmful method that will give the desired results. Remember that excessively dirty or spotted coins, if not cleaned within a reasonable length of time, can eventually corrode and become damaged beyond repair. After selecting the method you will use, you should experiment on low-value coins before cleaning high-value coins. Do not be tempted to use harsh chemicals, vinegar, sulfuric acid, abrasive pastes, polishing cloths, metal brushes, rock tumblers, rotating tools, or impact devices which can result in smooth, shiny, metal slugs.

The fifth rule is, if you know a coin you are selling has been cleaned, you must disclose that fact to the buyer