Does dipping a gold or silver coin in hydrogen peroxide cause any damage to the coin?

JustaRookie

I have a couple of $1 and $3 gold pieces that have some minor debris located in the denticles of the coins however the surfaces and fields are relatively clean. I have used MS70 and ez-zest in the past on coins that have significant an accumulation with great success however I am a bit concerned about using these agents on certain coins as they are very aggressive. I know that acetone is available and I have also used that in the past. Before I am berated for dipping any coin, I must openly state that I do not dip coins on a regular basis and only do so in extreme circumstances however the debris in the denticles irritate me somewhat and I would like to use the most gentle technique in an attempt to remove them. My thought on this process would be a dip in a hydrogen peroxide solution, isopropyl alcohol, and followed by a rinse in distilled water. Has anyone attempted this and if so what were the results? I would like to hear any and all opinions on this process. Thanks in advance.

tahoe98

it'll only help if the coin is infected. don't know if it will help or hurt, why would you want to do that?

notwilight

I haven't done that or know anything about it.

However, it makes sense. Neither Au or Ag is susceptible to oxidation so the H2O2 shouldn't affect it. The bubbling action might dislodge the debris. Of course whenever you dislodge debris you should know what to expect under it. --Jerry

BBQnBLUES

Might as well throw in a denture cleaner tablet to the mix...

Anyone remember "Fizzies" as a kid ?

7Jaguars

Interesting as I am not aware of hydrogen peroxide being used for cleaning. Usually used as an oxidant that has possibly anti-infective properties. Not as a solvent that I am aware. It may in fact lend towards more oxidation of the surface as it is usually sold as 3% solution in water. I would not leave it there long.

Acetone a very safe choice if 100% such as that I have seen at Walmart at about 4.99 a quart by last check.....Olive oil followed by gentle detergent and rinsing is another possibility....