Rescuing coins headache

Bodin

Why is there really no consensus (other than don't do it) for removal of verdigris, pvc, etc on copper, silver, etc?

I'm trying to remove some pvc from circulated Buffalos, Lincolns, and IHCs.

I searched through many years of posts and there are SO MANY different responses. No one seems to be on the same page of success.
Whats worse is that when someone states they have something that works for them, another poster will come along and say "that won't work"

I feel like at some point.....there would be a recipe for success.

I know, I know,.....too many variables I guess.

ShadyDave

I think the people who do have "recipes" that work well would prefer to charge you for their services or for the actual recipe or would rather keep it for themselves as a trade secret. I have encountered the same search results as you and I have also come to the same conclusion.

Experimenting or trying different methods on "junk silver" or common "Lincoln cents" is the only way to really find out what "recipe" works best for particular maladies depending on the severity.

ebaybuyer

an acetone soaked Q-tip works fine for removing PVC as well as most gunk from silver. it dries fast so may have to be re-wetted a few times, i prefer to roll the Q-tip rather than rubbing

WaterSport

Every coin I submit to PCGS, gets an acetone bath with Q tip also.

WS

Bodin

alright, i'm gonna figure out my own recipe. And I'm not telling ANYONE!
......now where is my MS70 and ranch dressing....

coindeuce

There allegedly is an old remedy for copper that involves free range turkeys.

ricko

As you mentioned, variables will affect the effectiveness of various recipes.... not really any

secrets... Acetone, Q-tips are usually effective, sometimes a rose thorn is necessary... but the more effort applied, the more likely there is already surface damage beneath. Cheers, RickO

Insider2

Since you already know about MS-70, you are well ahead of the "acetone" folks. Keep your ear low to the ground as there is lots of good info on the forums. Also, different methods and chemicals are used on different coinage metals.



Some posters know more than others and only give a few tips. I suggest you try ALL of them. Helps you separate the conservation buffs from the "parrots."



One method I have tried before on Buffalo nickels is two part: Coin Care then Acetone.



You'll have a very hard time prying out detailed info on copper conservation

coindeuce

I observed a wannabee dealer once recolor a decent 1821 large cent that was too bright, by wearing it daily inside his penny loafers with leather insoles for a couple of months. I guess the discomfort of having the object in his footwear was worth it. The end justifies the means ?

Insider2

[Quote] I observed a wannabee dealer once recolor a decent 1821 large cent that was too bright, by wearing it daily inside his penny loafers with leather insoles for a couple of months. [/Quote]



See, what I said.. info comes out to those who listen. Maybe that's why us old copper collectors limp around.