Why shouldn't you clean your coins?

Most coin cleaning products are abrasive, and could damage the coin. Non-abrasive chemicals can still react with the other metals found in some old coins. The physical act of scrubbing or polishing can also wear down the design, destroying one of the most important factors in deciding a coin's grade.

Why do they say not to clean coins?

Most Cleaning is Destructive: It Can Literally Change the Surface of a Coin. Any cleaning that requires rubbing leaves microscopic scratches. They are not apparent to the naked eye, but a collector will see them. A collector will look for them.

Is it OK to clean coins?

Only if the coins have more sentimental value to you and you don't plan on selling them. Generally, it is better to leave your antique metal currency alone than it is to try and erase all the grime and grit off of those coins. Cleaning or polishing rare coins devalues them.

Can I clean a coin without damaging it?

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.

Why should you not clean silver coins?

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

Should You Clean Your Coins? Coin Restoration Versus Coin Cleaning Facts

Does cleaning a coin hurt its value?

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.

Do professionals clean coins?

If a potentially valuable coin must be cleaned (for example if the coin is deformed) then professional work is recommended. Commonly found coins are mentioned as ideal candidates for any attempted cleaning experiments.

How do you clean coins without devaluing them?

Baking soda and vinegar have proven to be one of the most effective ways to clean tarnished coins. Submerge the coins in a shallow bath of vinegar and let them soak for at least an hour. If you don't have vinegar on hand, filtered tap or distilled water can be used as a substitute.

What happens if you clean an old coin?

Cleaning an old coin would remove the patina or toning that helps make it even more unique and visually appealing. Removing this effect can significantly reduce the value of the item. The other main reason you shouldn't clean old coins is that you can easily damage them.

What is the safest way to clean coins?

Place your coins in a bowl and pour enough white vinegar to cover the coins. Let the coins soak for at least 30 minutes but no longer than overnight. Remove the coins and gently scrub the residue with the toothbrush. Rinse the dirt off with water and dry with a cloth.

Is it OK to clean silver coins?

#3 Clean Silver Coins One at a Time

Place your tarnished coin on top and pour boiling water on top. Add some more baking soda directly over the metal. Let sit for two minutes for the water to cool down. Then, gently rub the baking soda into the face with gloves on.

Does Coca Cola clean coins?

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.

What is the science behind cleaning coins?

Here's what's happening: The oxygen in the air and the copper in the pennies form an oxide that coats the pennies and makes them look dirty. The acids (usually vinegar - acetic acid) break the copper oxide free from the penny.

What does PCGS use to clean coins?

Our experts use a non-abrasive cleaning method and cleaners, designed specifically for PCGS, which will not diminish the coin's aesthetic value. More importantly, each coin is treated separately. The conservation required for one coin may differ from that which is needed on the next.

Are there rare pennies?

The world's rarest and most coveted pennies are valued at more than $100,000 and some even go for $2 million. Rarity is a significant factor in determining a penny's worth. The condition of the coin is another. But demand is the factor that drives coin values the most.

Do coin collectors clean their coins?

Some collectors insist on cleaning their coins. One such collector had thousands of silver dollars. Every coin had been scrubbed with a harsh abrasive, every coin he bought got the same treatment, despite warnings from friends and dealers he did business with.

Is it OK to clean coins with alcohol?

You can clean your coins without damaging them by soaking them in a bath of isopropyl alcohol and salt. When combined, these ingredients are both abrasive and acidic and will clean any built-up dirt off your coins.

Does hydrogen peroxide clean coins?

Step-by-Step Walkthrough. First, you will want to remove any dirt or oil from your coin's surface using warm water and soap. Use some hydrogen peroxide solution (1 part water/3 parts hydrogen peroxide) and rub vigorously over both sides of the coin until they are completely clean.

How do you clean pennies fast?

Copper oxide dissolves in a mixture of weak acid and table salt-and vinegar is an acid. You could also clean your pennies with salt and lemon juice or orange juice, because those juices are acids, too.

Are 1964 half dollars worth anything?

According to the NGC Price Guide, as of February 2023, a Kennedy Half Dollar from 1964 in circulated condition is worth between $11 and $11.50. However, on the open market 1964 Half Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $5200.

How much is a 1900 silver dollar worth today?

According to the NGC Price Guide, as of February 2023, a Morgan Dollar from 1900 in circulated condition is worth between $33 and $63. However, on the open market 1900 Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $13000.

How much is a 1880 silver dollar worth?

1880 S Morgan Dollar Value

According to the NGC Price Guide, as of February 2023, a Morgan Dollar from 1880 in circulated condition is worth between $33 and $63. However, on the open market 1880 S Silver Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $29000.

What years of pennies are worth money?