people are more & more interested in condition & yes whether cleaned or not....
depends on the token to some degree. but the higher paying collectors, very generally, came from coin collecting and using condition as a buying criteria---as well as cleaning...!
I collect coal and lumber scrip---I figure if I don't have it I want it, the fact that it is worn (unless lettering missing or badly pitted) shows use...that's just history!!!
try not to clean it harshly...soaking in vinegar while taking it out & checking it alot is safe on brass. aluminum is the worse...soap and water, pink pearl eraser has little abrasives works.
I have a thin piece of veneer laminate with holes cut to fit variety of token sizes. this holds it in place while using the eraser.
intimer