Did you know that the worldwide coin collection market size was valued at $11.5 billion in 2020?
Cleaning old coins can be a difficult and delicate process. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up damaging the coin permanently.
Not only is coin cleaning a challenging process, but it can also be quite dangerous if you’re not careful. You could easily damage the coin if you’re not using the right techniques.
But don’t worry. Keep reading because our guide on how to clean old coins will teach you everything you need to know about the process. We’ll walk you through each step of the cleaning process so that your coins come out looking like new.
1. Soap and Water
Soap and water are one of the simplest ways to clean coins. All you need to do is mix a little bit of dish soap with some warm water, and then soak your coins in the mixture for a few minutes.
After that, you can just rinse them off with clean water. This method is effective for cleaning most types of dirt and grime from coins, although it may not be able to remove more stubborn stains.
Additionally, it’s important to be careful when using soap and water on older or more valuable coins, as there is a risk of damaging them if they are not handled properly. However, if used carefully, this method can be an effective way to clean your coins.
2. Vinegar and Baking Soda
If you’re looking for a natural way to clean your coins, vinegar and baking soda are popular choices. Simply mix the two ingredients to form a paste, and then apply the paste to your coins.
Leave it on for a few minutes, and then rinse it off. Some people like to add a little lemon juice to the mixture for extra cleaning power.
You can also use this method to clean other metals, like jewelry or silverware. Just be sure to rinse everything off well afterward, as the vinegar can be corrosive.
3. Jewelry Cleaner
One way to clean coins is to use jewelry cleaner. Just apply a small amount of cleaner to a soft cloth, and then rub it onto the coins. Rinse them off with water when you’re done.
Another way to clean coins is to place them in a solution of vinegar and water. Let them soak for a few minutes, and then scrub them with a toothbrush.
Rinse the coins off with water when you’re finished. With a little effort, you can get your coins looking like new again.
4. Specialized Coin Cleaner
While you can technically clean your coins with common household items, it’s usually best to use a specialized coin cleaner. These cleaners come with everything you need to get the job done right, including a cleaning solution and some special cloths or brushes.
Plus, the instructions that come with the cleaner will ensure that you don’t damage your coins in the process. If you want to keep your coins looking their best, investing in a specialized coin cleaner is a wise choice.
5. Professionals
If you’re serious about keeping your coins in good condition, you may want to consider taking them to a professional. Coin dealers and other experts have the tools and the knowledge to clean coins properly, so they’ll be able to get your coins looking their best.
Professional cleaners will also be able to provide you with advice on how to store your coins properly, so you can keep them in good condition for years to come.
Of course, taking your coins to a professional will cost you a bit of money, but it’s well worth it if you want to ensure that your collection is kept in pristine condition.
6. Toothpaste and Water
Toothpaste can also be used to clean coins. Just mix equal parts of toothpaste and water, and then soak your coins in the mixture for a few minutes.
Use a soft cloth to rub them clean, and then rinse them off with clean water. You may need to repeat this process a few times if your coins are particularly dirty.
This method is especially effective for removing build-up from copper coins. Toothpaste can also be used to clean silver jewelry. Just make sure you use non-abrasive toothpaste, such as one that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth.
Rub the paste onto the silver using a soft toothbrush, and then rinse it off with clean water. You may need to repeat this process a few times if your jewelry is particularly tarnished.
7. Cornstarch and Water
Finally, you can try using cornstarch and water to clean your coins. Simply mix equal parts of each, and then soak your coins in the mixture for a few minutes.
Once they’ve had a chance to soak, use a soft brush to scrub away any dirt or grime. Rinse them off with clean water when you’re done. While there are many different ways to clean coins, these five methods are some of the most effective.
Soap and water will work for most everyday cleaning needs, but you may need to try something else if your coins are particularly dirty.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to rinse your coins off with clean water when you’re done so that they don’t get damaged or corroded over time.
If you’re interested in starting your coin collection, check out these national guard challenge coins.
How to Clean Old Coins
Cleaning coins can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to do it the right way. By following the steps we outlined in this article, you now know how to clean old coins and get them looking their best.
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