How to Clean Silver Money
Over time silver coins and money can tarnish, corrode or become dirty from dust, dirt and residue. Before attempting to clean the coins, you should determine their value. Some silver coins have numismatic value, or a collector's value, which can diminish if the coins are cleaned or no longer appear aged. If you decide to clean the coins, only use gentle cleaning agents and nonabrasive cleaners to prevent scratches, discoloration and damage to the coin. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Plastic bowl
- Distilled water
- Liquid dish soap
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Soft cotton cloths
- Petroleum jelly
- Cotton swabs
- Denatured alcohol
Instructions
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1
Fill a plastic bowl or cup with 1 pint of distilled water and a 1 tbsp. liquid dish soap.
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2
Submerge the silver coins in the soapy water. Allow them to soak for five minutes.
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3
Lift the coins from the cup or bowl. Gently clean the coins with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
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4
Rinse the coin under cool distilled water to remove soap residue. Dry with a soft cloth. Continue to Step 5 if the coin is still dirty.
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5
Dip a cotton swab in petroleum jelly. Rub the jelly onto the silver coin until it is coated in a thin, even layer of jelly. Allow it to sit on the coin for approximately 60 seconds. Use a clean cotton swab to remove excess petroleum jelly. Buff the coin with a soft cotton cloth to remove dirt, buildup and all petroleum jelly residue. Proceed to Step 6 only if the coin is still not clean.
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6
Dampen a soft cloth with denatured alcohol. Rub the alcohol into the coin using the soft cloth. Dampen another soft cloth in distilled water. Wipe down the coin to remove all dirt, build up and denatured alcohol residue. Repeat as needed until the coin is clean.
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Tips & Warnings
Tap water should not be used to clean silver. It contains minerals that can leave or form spots on the silver coins and money. Use distilled water instead.
Do not use a metal bowl or cup when soaking the coins. Using dissimilar alloys can cause a reaction that can damage or ruin the coins. Never dip silver coins in silver dip or silver polish. These can ruin the value of the coin.
References
- Photo Credit old silver coin of russia image by Kostyantyn Ivanyshen from Fotolia.com
