Cleaning a coin

[necn24]

This is my first coin I’ve ever found. I believe it is an Indian head penny. I can see one number for the date but nothing else. It’s very deteriorated I found it in the water. I cleaned it with soap and water and andres pencils. The front is still no better but the back i can see. Should I keep doing what I’m doing or try something else or just leave it. Is there something I can put on it to keep it from deteriorating even more? It’s starting to turn green around the edges also. Sorry about the pics I can’t get them to look any bettter. Thanks

 

[steve_rowlands]

Leave it as is, it's got nothing more to give and patina is part of its character. They'll be others that are in better condition out of the ground.
First of many I'm sure.
Steve

 

[smokeythecat]

Steve_Rowland is correct, once they're that far gone, they are gone. And you will find more. It is indeed an Indian head cent.

 

[necn24]

Okay thank you!

 

[Professor of Engineering]

Nice finds, congrats!

 

[powrsurg]

Congrats on the find. It feel good doesn't it! Those above have given great advice.

 

[necn24]

Yes it was just laying there! Would like to have got a date from it but still glad I found it!

 

[Horst]

it is so easy ruining a coin....I just did yesterday leave it as is.....