Cleaning Your Coins?

[Brandx]

After digging your coins from the ground what is the best way to clean them up? Do you clean the different types of coins the same?
Thanks B

 

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[lastleg]

Here's the deal, get a coin value guide to check your finds. If you find a valuable coin, not likely, take it to a dealer as is to
see what you can get for it. On 99% of the others decide if you want to make them look good in your collection. All coins come
out of the ground damaged and if you mess with them they usually look worse than before and will deteriorate more due to
exposure to oxygen. So you can clean lightly with soap and water with a final dip in distilled water. Best way to dry is hold
the coin next to an incandescent lightbulb holding the side of the coin only. After drying completely put it in an airtight container.

There are ways to spruce up coins but many theories you will hear of on this forum. Some good, some not. It has taken me years
to know what not to do to a coin.

 

[Brandx]

Lastleg,
Thank you for taking the time and info.

 

[boristhespider88]

For copper pennies and nickels, you can soak them in a vinegar/salt mixture for a little bit. If you want shiny pennies, dry them off and rub them really vigorously with a pencil eraser. Yes, you will have a 'damaged' coin, but it will look nicer than a grimy, black penny. But go with lastleg's advice first. If you have crap common date stuff, what I suggested will be fine.