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I need instructions on proper coin dipping ...

My purpose is NOT to start a pro- or anti- dipping thread here.

I have read every thread I could find that refers to dipping, and I have seen several variations as to product, dilution, dip time, metal type, etc.

I have some INEXPENSIVE silver and copper coins that have really ugly spots and/or tarnish and I would like to remove the offending blemishes. I am not selling dipped coins. This is strictly for my personal collection. My questions are:

What steps are necessary including product, dilution, handling tools, rinse agents, proper drying, and any other tips I need to know for silver coins AND for copper coins?

Is there any procedural difference for .800 silver vs. .900 silver?

Would a plastic set of tongs (or other plastic tool) lend itself to breakdown of the plastic while in solution to further contaminate the coin?

Is dilution better with tap water or distilled?

Any procedural advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks !!!
image

My OmniCoin Collection
My BankNoteBank Collection
Tom, formerly in Albuquerque, NM.

Comments

  • Search and you shall recieve... image There have been plenty of threads on the subject... just search, and you'll find em... imageimage
    -George
    42/92
  • AuldFartteAuldFartte Posts: 4,597 ✭✭✭✭
    That's why I'm confused, JrGman ...

    Too many various methods. Dip for 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 7 seconds, one even had a 30 second dip. Sheesh. Use this product ... Use that product.

    That's why I'm asking.
    image

    My OmniCoin Collection
    My BankNoteBank Collection
    Tom, formerly in Albuquerque, NM.
  • I think one of the 'biggies' is to dilute about 50/50 (water and e*z*est )

    Then aprox 3 seconds in, rinse with Distilled water, rinse again in acetone, pat dry.

    sound about right ?
  • <<My purpose is NOT to start a pro- or anti- dipping thread here.>>

    Whether you want to or not, you already have.
    image
    image
  • I use two bowls
    one is 33% dip rest is bottled water

    and 2nd bowl is bottled water with tablespoon of baking soda (disolved)


    2 seconds hold with fingers on edges change hands (to hold different edge) repeat 2 seconds

    place in 2nd bowl 20 seconds. Rinse with cool tap water. Allow to air dry.

    Repeat at your own risk.

    The less the better.
  • Like Porcpines make love "very carefully" image
    Collecting eye-appealing Proof and MS Indian Head Cents, 1858 Flying Eagle and IHC patterns and beautiful toned coins.

    “It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure that just ain't so.” Mark Twain
    Newmismatist
  • AuldFartteAuldFartte Posts: 4,597 ✭✭✭✭
    ss350camaro and coynclector, THANK YOU for the helpful advice image
    image

    My OmniCoin Collection
    My BankNoteBank Collection
    Tom, formerly in Albuquerque, NM.
  • "Too many various methods. Dip for 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 7 seconds, one even had a 30 second dip. Sheesh. Use this product ... Use that product.

    That's why I'm asking. "

    You will never get one set answer. Every person does it differently.

    Cameron Kiefer


  • << <i>You will never get one set answer. Every person does it differently. >>

    image
  • dorkkarldorkkarl Posts: 12,691 ✭✭✭
    the single most important thing to know is: DO NOT USE TAP WATER.

    it is essential, that you use distilled water, not "filtered", but DISTILLED.

    dry the coins w/ CANNED AIR, not a cloth. a cloth can impart residue to the highly-reactive coin surface. store the coin IMMEDIATELY.

    do NOT heat up the dip (part of an old coin doctoring trick.)

    use a glass instrument for dipping the coin, NOT your hand (which introduces impurity to the dip), & change the dip frequently. i do recommend diluting the dip W/ DISTILLED water.

    that's really about all you need to know.

    K S
  • Geez, even a 3 second dip is too long for me. If it doesn't come off after a quick dunk and rinse, I leave it alone.
    image
    image

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