cleaning nicely toned coins?

onthespot

I recently inherited a modest coin collection. I have since been reading as much as I can on the board, then looking at my coins, then reading and understanding more. I am starting to "get it." I was horrified to read about fingerprints on copper coins, as I have been admiring a nicely toned copper Irish coin with my bare hands, and have read about how bad cleaning is. Have I ruined my favorite coin? I would like to be a good conservator... Any suggestions?

MacCoin

finger prints aren't hard to get off. I have many coins I love to hold in my hands. I love the feel of a morgan the heavy, thick, cold silver gets me off. yep I know I'm a sick SOB.

ARCO

Uncirculated (red) copper coins can pick up a fingerprint very easily. darker, chocolate toned copper coins look good original just as they are and any fingerprint threat is greatly reduced as the coin is already toned and darker. Touching one a few times probably won't do much damage.

If you are really worried about a fingerprint ruining the coin, there are non-intrusive ways to remove oils from the coin. Not being an expert myself, you should read up on, and or ask questions here on this BB about non-intrusive cleaning. Non-intrusive cleaning is water, or a very mild cleanser to remove the oil. Never rub it to clean it nor rub it to dry the coin, or use any agent that can discolor the surface.

It you decide to clean a coin, it is wise to practice the same procedure on a common and cheap coin. Try it on a penny (pre 83) and see how it works.

Tyler

braddick

Uncirculated Copper shouldn't be cleaned.

onthespot

even with water and super diluted soap?

Placid

Copper is best left as is unless it has pcv or something that will kill the coin if not removed.

braddick

<< <i>even with water and super diluted soap? >>


Ok, maybe like that, but be careful and go easy.