Suggestions to make this more readable

dustyspurs · Feb 15, 2015

I found this in a plantation cane field north of NOLA. I'm hoping someone can suggest ways to clean it enough to determine what it is. So far, I've cleaned it lightly with a brush and water. It's slightly smaller than a quarter but much thinner and copper. There are some raised areas, but not enough to clearly describe. Any ideas will be greatly appreciated.

huntsman53 · Feb 15, 2015

First, soak it in Acetone for a few minutes to stop the verigris, rinse, pat dry with a towel, then place it in Extra Virgin Olive Oil for several weeks to several months to loosen any dirt, grime and/or corrosion that might be removed and to stabilize it to prevent further corrosion. Once removed from the Olive Oil, you can use a green Rose Thorn to remove most of the remaining dirt, grime and some of the corrosion, then pat dry very well with a towel and see what details you can then make out. After that, place the coin in a 2x2 protective holder.

Frank

dustyspurs · Feb 16, 2015

Frank,
Thank you for the detailed suggestions. Will try to get started on the process today and will post after pictures.Chuck

puredoller · Feb 21, 2015

Make sure you remember us! I'm very curious now too!! I want to see the results!

relicmeister · Feb 21, 2015

If you're too impatient for that, put olive oil on a well worn pad of scotchbrite and rub the coin stopping frequently to wipe it with cloth and look for the details to emerge.
I've done this on coins looking as featureless as yours with good results.

coachbedford · Feb 22, 2015

I'm also curious as to what your coin is. If any wording can be made discernable that would probably help the most.

Professor of Engineering · Feb 22, 2015

Nice find, looking forward to the finished results!

Calgarychef · Feb 24, 2015

Scotch brite

? Perish the thought, I'd kill someone for even rubbing a coin with their fingers. The suggestion about olive oil and a thorn is a good one, go with that.

Scrappy · Feb 25, 2015

Calgarychef said:
Scotch brite? Perish the thought, I'd kill someone for even rubbing a coin with their fingers. The suggestion about olive oil and a thorn is a good one, go with that.

Well said. X3