How to Clean a Penny

Pennies are made of copper, which is a bright shiny metal. However, as copper is exposed to air over time, it begins to create copper oxide, giving the copper a dull green appearance. Not to fear, though! It's surprisingly easy to clean off the copper oxide, giving you a penny that looks brand new.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• dirty pennies
• small bowl
• vinegar
• salt
• water

1. Pour some vinegar into the bowl. How much vinegar you use depends on how many pennies you have to clean. You only need enough to cover the pennies. In most cases, 1/4 cup will do.
2. Add the salt to the vinegar. You only need about a teaspoon of salt. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves.
3. Put the pennies into the vinegar and salt mixture. Let them soak for at least 5 minutes.
4. Remove the pennies and rinse them off with water. You can let them dry on paper towels.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to do just a few at a time. Small batches work well.
• If you do not rinse your pennies, they will turn blue-green.