If you really like your coin finds...

[goldencoin]

STOP RUBBING THEM! I see about half the silver coins found here with scratches on the surface. They are caused when small sand or rock particles in dirt are pushed across the coin. I damaged up a lot of coins like that. Even if you are just in it for the bullion value, you may SIGNIFICANTLY decrease the value of any potential key dates. If you are so impatient that you cannot wait to see your finds, bring a squirt bottle of water with do rinse the coin of any dirt. Even the slightest rub can damage a coin.

Thanks

HH
-GC

 

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[Iron Patch]

It's very common to dig coins with scratches like that so don't assume most people rub their silver coins. I get all my rubs in on the copper and buttons!

 

[goldencoin]

I know some are dinged up with plow damage, but the clean, hairline scratches are usually the product of rubbing

HH
-GC

 

[Woodland Detectors]

Good advise Michigander.

 

[Iron Patch]

I know some are dinged up with plow damage, but the clean, hairline scratches are usually the product of rubbing

HH
-GC

Can also occur if the coin is moved with the dirt. This is why I don't scoop out the target with my shovel... but many do.

 

[turtlefoot13]

I've wondered about this when watching MD'ing on Youtube. I have seen so many videos where people don't know what they have yet, and they are rubbing away on the front of a coin to get a date with dirt all over it and dirty/sandy gloves on. I have always thought it would/could damage the coin.

Thanks for the tip.
Doug