need some help on cleaning some coins

[dasdigger]

i just started diggin a couple of months ago and so far ive found a 1859, two1887,and a 1876 indian head pennys.a couple of wheaties and a large cent that i cant get a date on. and i was wondering how you guys clean your coins that are dug

[oldplacesnofinds]

I always start with warm water and soap. Olive oil works well on coppers that have gunk on them. Just let them soak in it for a few days.

[Pepper2004]

Glad you ask this. I didn't know about the olive oil. I've just been soaking mine is soapy water.

[dasdigger]

yeah i do the soap and water thing but ill have to try the olive oil thanks for the advice

[oldplacesnofinds]

The 1787 Jersey I have pictured here was black when I found it. I soaked it for about a week and wiped it off with a papertowel.

[I_Dig_NYC]

As a long time collector I know cleaning coins is a no-no, people pay for the aged antique looking patinas.. If they are really old and valuable, and you scrub them clean til they shine it will drop in value. If your unsure of the value start with warm water, liquid soap or detergent, and an old toothbrush. If you can determine that they are not valuable then soak them in a vinegar/salt/water solution. I think this works best on copper. Separate the coins first!! Don't mix the copper with clad or silver or they will ALL come out looking like copper..