Water find shield nickel. Best way to clean?

[DiggerDave in Pa.]

This was a water find from 2013. It is the nicest shield nickel I have dug. It has some black areas on the surface. I'm guessing it is rust or something like that. This is how it came out. How do I clean this without hurting the coin itself? any input will be appreciated. DDinPA.

 

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[SusanMN]

Homestly, I don't think there is much you could do that wouldn't damage the nickle further. You can try a soak in lemon juice but sometimes that dulls the coin.

 

[thrillathahunt]

Congrats Dave! If it were mine (and what I am about to suggest has worked for me on this condition) I would use mineral oil and 000 steel wool. The trick is the generously apply the oil and CAREFULLY rub the black area until it becomes less black. Soaking it in anything acidic will only pit it more and I do not recommend it.

This is what I do, and have had acceptable results with it. No guarantees however.