1903 Indianhead Penny

[ATGoldGuy]

I found a 1903 Indian Head penny today. Its in rough shape. Should I attempt to clean it...and if so...what would you recommend?

 

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[Coppercrazy]

It depends. I only clean coins if there isn't a date visible. I would say no, but it doesn't really have much value either way, so it won't affect it too much. Personally I would rather have a dirty Poor 3 condition coin than a cleaned MS Details coin. It's your call. Like I said, doesn't really matter in this case.

 

[ATGoldGuy]

Thanks CC...I appreciate the reply.

 

[Pointman]

I general only clean with a Q-tip and alcohol and then soak my coins in olive oil for a few days and wipe clean. Basically, the loose dirt is removed and the olive oil preserves and makes the coins look better.

I have used other things to clean coins, some more benign then others and they either don't help clean it anymore then what I do with alcohol and olive oil or they damage the coins.

Hot peroxide is almost too evasive and even white vinegar can remove too much of the base metal if the coin is left too long in it.

 

[enamel7]

Use acetone.

 

[ATGoldGuy]

Do you soak it...or just dab with a Q-Tip?

 

[enamel7]

Soak it.

 

[ATGoldGuy]

Overnight? Or just a short time. I have no idea how strong Acetone is?

 

[enamel7]

Acetone only affects the organics, not the coin itself. Make sure you do it in a glass container. Keep it covered to prevent evaporation. The longer the soak the better, especially if there is a lot of buildup.

 

[ATGoldGuy]

Thanks Enamel7! I really do appreciate the advice!

 

[ATGoldGuy]

Acetone should only be used to clean pennies correct?

 

[WhiteTornado]

You can try heating hydrogen peroxide in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Put the coin in there and let it fizz for a few seconds. Dab gently upon removing it. Depending on how it looks (can you provide a pic?), it may not even be worth it. I would probably only clean it significantly if it was a key date, or just enough to see the date if it could not be seen.

Hope this helps.