Old copper coins varnished/lacquered - ruined or ...??

StubbyMcNumbthumbs

Once in a while I see an old farthing or such that has been lacquered or varnished to protect it. Are these coins considered ruined or have they been safely preserved for future generations? Should/can this type of covering be removed or just left alone?

Frankly, it doesn't bother me when I see it, as it may have been the thing to do at some time in the past, and doesn't appear to do any damage to the coins. If anything, it seems to protect them. I could never bring myself to do this to one, but I'm ok with the 1 or 2 that I've purchased like this. Am I alone in thinking this way or do most collectors cringe and run the other way when they see this?

Thoughts / opinions?

Thanks!

ajaan

I have successfully removed lacquer from Canadian Large Cents using acetone. Read the directions when using though.

WorldTypeSet

Old copper coins varnished/lacquered - ruined or ...??

Lacquered = protected. Can be removed with acetone, but it takes a bit of skill.

If the lacquer is in good shape, leave it alone. If it's flaking or cracked, it's a tough call.

Sapyx

Old-style varnish rarely does any harm, apart from turning the coins darker than they otherwise might be. If the varnish is still intact, I agree, keep it -it's done a good job of protection so far, and is probably good for another hundred years or two.

If it looks ugly, damaged or otherwise dysfunctional, acetone should get rid of it no worries.

StubbyMcNumbthumbs

Thanks for the replies! I was kind of thinking the same thing. The 2 coins I have like that are a William & Mary 1694 farthing and a William III 1697 farthing. Who knows how long it's been on there, and they do look a bit darker than normal, but otherwise in good shape.
I'll definitely leave them alone. Just wasn't sure if it was a wise move to continue buying others like this.

Cheers!

Dentuck

I remember in the 1980s buying hoards of Victorian and Edwardian British pennies that were practically dripping with gun oil, used as a preservative.

lordmarcovan

Lacquer?

No big deal at all, as far as I am concerned. If it hasn't become chipped or flaky or cloudy or otherwise distracting, leave it be, I say.

If it is partially flaking off or unsightly or you simply must have it off, try acetone.