Can gold appear to be rusty?

[Kentucky Kache]

Does anyone know what gold coins might look like if they had
been buried in an iron pot? What color would they be? Could they
appear to be rusty, due to the iron pot?

I'm researching a story about rusty coins (found and reburied), that
were supposed to be gold. On the surface it sounds fishy, because
gold doesn't rust. But then, they are in an iron container.

[jeff of pa]

I never found gold against tin or iron,

However, I would think the Rust could attach, But would come off with
minimum effort.

I say this because I have seen rust on the edge of silver coins.

[Real de Tayopa Tropical Tramp]

jeff of pa
I never found gold against tin or iron,
However, I would think the Rust could attach, But would come off with
minimum effort.
I say this because I have seen rust on the edge of silver coins.
**********
A) YES, it is very common with placers, especially with flake gold. The iron oxidaton from surrounding iron minerals will coat it. This has always been a problem with mercury recovery in sluices or pans.

Till Eulespiegle

[Kentucky Kache]

Everything checks out, so, my story might be true.
A huntin' I will go.