How to Clean Coins With Acetone

Collecting coins is a hobby enjoyed by many people of all different ages. One of the most important things to keep in mind when dealing with old coins is that the decision to remove all of the dirt and debris that has accumulated on them over the years will lessen their monetary value by as much as 90 percent. So it's a good idea to find out how much the coin is worth before cleaning it. Once it is established that doing so will be inconsequential, acetone can restore your coins' shine in a short time.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Dish soap
• Soft towel

Instructions

1. Rinse the coins in warm water to remove any loose dirt or debris.

2. Separate the coins by metal. Soaking different types of metals together won't be as effective.

3. Set the coins in bowls or small containers and pour enough acetone on them to completely submerge them.

4. Allow the coins to soak for 30 minutes.

5. Remove the coins from the acetone and wash them with warm soapy water and an old toothbrush.

6. Dry the coins with a soft towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear gloves when handling coins to avoid fingerprints.

• Ventilate the area well when using acetone. You should already be wearing gloves to handle the coins, so also make sure not to get acetone on your skin, as this may cause irritation.

Resources

• How to Clean Coins