How to Clean Old Coins

It’s very exciting as a coin collector to come across an old coin. Since most found coins were in circulation years ago, they can be very dirty. Coins that have been found when metal detecting can be especially dirty as they’ve been exposed to soil and weather for unknown periods of time. To get old coins in their best possible condition, they will need to be cleaned in a way that reduces damage to their surfaces.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Verify the type of old coin that is in your possession. This can be done by checking the coin’s date and mint mark, if it’s visible and printed on the coin.

2. Place the sink stopper in the sink’s drain and rinse the coin under cold running water. Having the sink stopper in place will prevent the coin from going down the drain in case it slips from your fingers. Don’t rub the coin while it’s being rinsed. This can scratch it.

3. Soak the coin in a small bowl of Vinegar for approximately five minutes.

4. Rinse the coin again under cold running water. If it’s clean, proceed to the drying step. If it’s still not clean, continue with the next step.

5. Return the coin to the small bowl of Vinegar and let it set for fifteen minutes.

6. Rinse the coin again under cold running water. If it’s clean, proceed to the drying step. If it’s still not clean, continue with the next step.

7. Brush the coin with a very soft toothbrush. Brush only the soiled area and avoid applying too much pressure. If dirt still remains, use a magnifying glass and a toothpick to carefully chip off the dirt.

8. Rinse the coin one final time under cold running water.

9. Dry the coin with a soft cloth. Pat the coin dry versus rubbing the coin dry.