What is dipping?

AtcBob

As I'm new and trying to learn, what is the term "dipping" mean when we talk about dipping coins?

Bob

dwood

Bob,
It is literally dipping a coin in a mildly acidic solution to remove tarnish,, toning, or some other foreign substance from the surface of the coin.

It is extremely risky, and in many peoples' minds (mine included) a form of doctoring a coin, though mildly.

nwcs

It's a term for soaking a coin in an acidic solution to remove oxidation and lighten the color of the coin.

AtcBob

I'm not sure about what solutions you would use, but, wouldn't you be able to tell it?

Bob

dwood

Yes, you can tell (though many argue you can't). Typically jeweler's type solutions are used, though the folks who do this on a regular basis generally have their own recipes for the dip.

Coins which have been dipped will generally show signs of broken luster, having a "washed out" appearance, though the better ones may be hard to detect without signifigant magnification.

nwcs

I agree, but it can be said that certain dipping is beneficial. If the benefit of cleaning outweighs the corrosive element on the coin then it's a beneficial process. Otherwise, it's not something I would advocate. Myself, I have not dipped a coin in anything that changes the metallic structure of the coin in any way. (distilled water and acetone do not react with metal)

Bear

Its what I do with my donutes and coffee. Everybody should know that.

MacCoin

Ok I'm fessing up I' m a dipper but let me tell you right now you better know whats under what your cleaning off because sometime the coin look much better uncleaned. years of oxidation can make a cirulated coin look much better, but AU and up looks pretty nice after a little bath.

dorkkarl

it's a form of chemically doctoring coins so-as brighten them.

K S

Steve27

Unless it's performed on heavily toned coins, you can't tell. This is why dipping is considered to be a form of "conservation." For more information on conservation you should write to ICG, ICTA, NGC, PCGS, or PNG for a free copy of their publication "The Conservation Of Coins."

Twowood

I guess one way to detect a"dipped" coin is simply to look at the date. Obviously an 1892 Barber with an eye dazzeling luster could not possibly be in that beautiful condition without a dip or two. Right?
Twowood

MacCoin

I heard as much as 70% silver and 40% copper was dipped/doctored to me restored.