How to Clean a Coin Collection
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a fascinating hobby. Some people collect rare coins as an investment, while others do it for pleasure. Maintaining your collection takes some effort, however. Some experts recommend that you never clean the coins in your collection, because by doing so, you can inadvertently damage the coins. However, if you are trying to clean them so that you can better enjoy their aesthetics, then the process is straightforward.
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Instructions
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Gather the coins that you want to clean. Try to avoid handling the coins with your fingers if they are particularly dirty; use disposable gloves to keep your hands clean.
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Soak the coins in soapy water in a plastic bowl for a few days to loosen dirt and debris. Agitate them every now and again by shaking the bowl to help break up dirt.
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Rinse the coins in a colander in the sink under running tap water. Pat dry with a clean, soft cloth. Lay a soft cloth out on a flat, non-wood surface and gently empty the coins onto the towel to dry. Let dry for a few hours.
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Repeat the above step if the coins are still dirty. If they aren't clean enough, put the coins back into the bowl, cover with vinegar and pour in 1/8 to 1/4 cup of baking soda. This will help remove any remaining dirt and grime.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider buying a rock tumbler if you plan to clean a lot of coins. Although these are designed for cleaning gems, they can also be used for cleaning coins.
Numismatic experts strongly suggest that you shouldn't clean your coins unless you're absolutely certain they are not valuable, as cleaning can damage valuable coins, and many collectors prefer to buy coins in their natural state or uncleaned.
