Encrusted Coin

[StephLeigh]

I found this coin (what I hope is a coin) at the beach in Charleston. I would love some advice on the best way to clean it up. It's totally encrusted. I don't know what type of metal it is!

Thanks a Million [emoji16]

 

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[kingskid1611]

Does it ring in as metallic?

 

[BigWaveDave]

Set it on edge on a granite counter top, and tap it hard enough with a ball peen hammer until the crust chunks off.

 

[StephLeigh]

Yes, metallic. I have a ball peen hammer, has that worked for you? I was hoping for some kind of soak. I'll give it a few taps! Thanks[emoji4]

 

[BigWaveDave]

works everytime.....your objective at this point will be to identify the coin....preserving and rescuing it as a museum quality collectible aint gonna happen.

 

[StephLeigh]

Good deal. Thanks Dave!

 

[ARC]

See if it is magnetic.

 

[Ant]

I would tumble or use electrolysis if soaking and working it with a wooden probe didn't work. The hammer should be your very last resort... at that point you don't have anything anyway.

 

[ironhorse]

I would be surprised if it even is a coin, it sure doesn't look like one to me

keep us posted on the outcome

 

[swamp yankee]

Congrats on your find princess! I'd recommend you get a gallon of DISTILLED water and put the piece in a small plastic storage container w/lid pour enough water to fill to within 1/4" of the top and cover. Let it sit in there until some of the crud comes off and try to pick off more gently w/wooden toothpicks. Be patient and don't be discouraged if it turns out to be iron junque.Check w/magnet first before doing anything.HH.....

 

[electroman1974]

Soak in olive oil it will help.

 

[BigWaveDave]

Soooooo.......what was it?

 

[StephLeigh]

I haven't cleaned it yet.... I plan on it tomorrow

 

[Dug]

See if it is magnetic.

I second the motion.

By the second pic, kind of looks like a crusty old iron washer corroded over.

 

[BigWaveDave]

I haven't cleaned it yet.... I plan on it tomorrow

Your killing me!!! Its been 5 days! We need to know!

 

[StephLeigh]

I am not nearly as excited about it as I was! Ha ha ha