Haze on Proofs

slabfab

I discovered some Ike Proofs I bought years ago. These are the ones encased within the brown boxes. Every single one of these has a haze on it. Question 1: Can the haze be removed, and if so how? Question 2: Should it be removed? Question 3: Does haze on proofs typically lower the value, and if so by how much?

Thanks!

slabfab

Hello? Is this thing on?

MadMarty

You need one of these!!!

ksteelheader

Acetone will remove the haze safely!

Welcome to the forums!

Ken

slabfab

Marty, LOL, yeah I got a couple of those already...not sure I'd trust my coins to 'em tho!

Ken, Thanks! Where can I get acetone. I assume I would only want to use a high concentration?

LeeG

I picked up the 100% Acetone in the Auto Section at WalMart. Also try the search function above for alot more info about this. Lee

robertpr

Acetone is the way to go:

• Visit a hardware store or a department store with a paint section. Pick up some 100% Pure Acetone. Usually in metal containers near the strippers. I mean the chemical strippers.
• Find a glass or metal container that can be sealed shut, like a canning jar. I use a canning jar. Note that acetone eats away at plastics, so don't use a plastic container. Also, the fumes are highly hazardous so use it outdoors preferably, or in a garage. As someone else mentioned the fumes are heavier than air so they tend to creap along the countertop, onto the floor, and along the floor. They're BAD news if you have pets and it is highly flammable.
• Dip the coin in. If a quick dip doesn't work leave the coins in. You can leave the coins in the acetone as long as it takes, it won't hurt the coins. Leave 'em in for a week if you want to, it makes no difference. If you leave it in the acetone for more than a few seconds, seal the container. Acetone evaporated extremely quickly.
• It's been my experience that you don't want to dip copper for any length of time because it leaves a film on the copper. The film is easily removed, but nonetheless is annoying.
• When you're ready, just wave the coins around when you remove from the acetone. They'll dry right in front of your eyes. As I said, the stuff evaporates VERY quickly.

And there you have it. One more thing, do not reuse the acetone. You can dispose of it by pouring it onto a concrete surface outside. It will evaporate away. I wouldn't pour it on the grass or anything like that though.

slabfab

Thanks guys, This has been very educational.