Why does cleaning coins devalue them?

This is because anything that touches a coin has the potential to damage it at the microscopic level. The more abrasive a cleaner is used to clean the coin, the more likely it is to remove the upper surface of the coin - damage that can never be undone.

Does cleaning coins decrease the value?

1. The most important thing NOT to do is clean your coins. Cleaning rare numismatic coins will significantly reduce their value – plain and simple. Although you don't lose much by cleaning a coin which derives value only from its silver content, it's not worth the risk.

Why does cleaning a coin destroy its value?

These solutions use acids or abrasives to clean the metal and this will seriously reduce the value of the coin. They can remove some of the original finish or tone and even cause scratching, so they are viewed as a major negative in the world of numismatics.

Are cleaned coins damaged coins?

If you clean a coin to remove tarnish or toning, you will damage the coin's surface. Some methods of cleaning metal use an acid "dip" for cleaning.

How much does polishing a coin decrease its value?

Now, here's what cleaning can do to the value of a coin. If an MS-63 is worth about $7,250, that same coin, polished, is worth between $1,200 and $4,200, depending upon the degree of damage.

Here's How Professionals Deep Clean Things

What's the best way to clean coins without damaging them?

Take the coins out and sprinkle some baking soda over them; then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush them clean. Rinse them out thoroughly with hot water; using tongs or gloves to hold them to avoid burning your fingers. Place them on a soft, cotton towel and leave to air dry.

Is it illegal to clean coins?

According to Title 18, Chapter 17 of the U.S. Code, which sets out crimes related to coins and currency, anyone who “alters, defaces, mutilates, impairs, diminishes, falsifies, scales, or lightens” coins can face fines or prison time.

What do professionals use to clean coins?

These coins are cleaned by using distilled water with a small amount of detergent in a special vibrating container. Acid based cleaners will eat away at a coin's surface diminishing its value.

Does polishing silver coins decrease value?

Tarnish on silver coins is called "toning" and the coin is worth more with the toning intact. Removing it will damage the coin's surface and greatly reduce its value. In other words, you should never use dips, polish, or chemical solutions to clean your coins.

Should old coins be cleaned before selling?

Don't clean your coins! Not only does this cut their value by as much as half (or possibly even more), but it will be an immediate deal-breaker for many dealers who would've otherwise wanted to buy your coins if only they were left in their original condition.

What cleans the penny the best?

Vinegar (or Lemon Juice) and Salt

This method is the best way to clean your pennies, and it will produce a very bright orangey-copper color on your pennies. It does this by using the low levels of acids that are contained naturally in vinegar and lemon juice to remove the patina (brown oxidation) on the penny.

How do you clean silver coins without losing value?

Can Coke clean coins?

Who would have thought that your favorite soda is also a great cleaning agent? Yes, that refreshing can of Coke that you like to drink by the pool can also clean coins. Coke's phosphoric acid can clean the oxides that cause tarnish and corrosion.

Are wheat pennies worth any money?

Most wheat cents (wheat pennies were minted between 1909 and 1956) are worth about 4 to 5 cents. Those in better condition can have double-digit value. Special examples (especially those in near perfect condition) can be worth much more. Indian Head pennies from 1859 to 1879 are generally worth more than $10.

What are the 15 most valuable pennies?

Why is melting pennies illegal?

Pennies and nickels contain copper, zinc, and other metals that are of great monetary value. It is because of this that melting down these metals for the sole intention of selling to offshore or local metal scraping industries is illegal.

What coins are illegal to own?

Currently, with the exception of the one sold on July 30, 2002, 1933 double eagle coins cannot be the legal possession of any member of the public, as they were never issued and hence remain the property of the United States government.

Are pennies pure copper?

Most of our coins are metal sandwiches. The outside layers are three-quarters copper and one-quarter nickel, and the "filling" is solid copper. Pennies are made of zinc coated with copper. Only nickels are one solid material—that same 75% copper/25% nickel alloy.

What causes rainbow toning on coins?

Toning occurs naturally over time. It is primarily the result of oxygen and/or sulfur reacting with the coin's metal. However, the toning process can be accelerated by heat, moisture, and various chemicals in the environment.

Does toning hurt coin value?

Different colors and patterns of toning can have varying effects on a coin's grade and value. For example, brown spotty toning could decrease a coin's value, while colorful rainbow toning could increase it.

Can you unclean a coin?

According to coin experts, cleaning any potentially collectible coins might cause them to lose value. Using chemical cleaners or scrubbing the coins could leave scratches and marks that will be easy for a skilled appraiser to pick up on.

How do you store coins?

Keep your coins in a stable, cool and dry location. If humidity is a problem, use desiccants to absorb atmospheric moisture. Proper storage is absolutely critical for protecting and preserving your coins.

What years of wheat pennies are valuable?

What coins are worth a lot of money?