Ever unearthed an old coin on your latest adventure? Wondering how to restore its hidden shine without damage? Dive in to unearth the secrets!
One of the greatest treasures you can find while metal detecting is Old Coins. I have found numerous old coins with my metal detector.
The value of an old coin is worth thousands. The coins I detected were covered with dirt and mud.
I wanted to clean them and preserve them. I went to the coin experts and got the knowledge about cleaning old coins properly without damaging them.
Here’s what I know about, How to clean old coins found in the ground?
To clean old coins found in the ground, gently brush off loose dirt with a soft brush. Avoid metal tools to prevent scratches. Soak coins in olive oil or use a soft toothbrush with mild soap. Always test cleaning methods on less valuable coins first. After cleaning, let coins air-dry naturally.
As I said, there are several effective ways that we could use to clean the old coins.
If you are really looking forward to those, join me in this article as I guide you step-by-step on how to clean Old Coins found in the ground.
Let’s dig in!
Guidelines to Follow Before Cleaning Old Coins
Follow the below guidelines to clean old coins found in the ground while you’re metal detecting.
1. Identify the Coin
It is always best to identify the coin beforehand because if the coin is an antique piece it may value a lot in the market and you may clean it carefully.
You can identify the coin by its year printed on it.
2. Be Patient
Patience is the key factor. It is necessary to clean the coins patiently as the coins may hold a great value.
If you make any scratches they may lose their value.
3. Preserve the Patina
Over time, many antique coins acquire a patina that adds to their historical attractiveness.
The patina shouldn’t be attempted to be removed or altered because it can dramatically lower the coin’s value.
How to Clean Old Coins Found in the Ground
I know it isn’t easy to clean up the dirty old coins that were picked up by a metal detector. But today’s world has solutions for every problem.
I have tried cleaning the coins I detected in my metal-detecting journey. Some gave positive results and some didn’t.
It is because we know that the coins are buried in the soil for a long time and may have undergone some changes in their composition by reacting with the environment around them.
Read to know the Best Places to Metal Detect for Old Coins
Now, let me guide you with the best ways to clean old coins without removing the coin’s distinguishing features as I did.
Here are the best methods you can follow when cleaning old coins,
- Soak method using Water and Soap
- Baking soda paste method
- Salt and Lemon method
- Commercial Coin Cleaners
So, let’s discuss each of the above methods in detail to clean old coins found from the ground when metal detecting without damaging them.
1. Clean Old Coins Using Water and Soap
This is the simplest method you could go for and clean the coins without doing any damage on them.
Let’s look into the step-by-step guide on how to clean old coins by Soak method using Water and Soap.
1. Gather Supplies
All you need is mild soap, water, a soft brush, a container, and a soft towel to start.
2. Fill the Container with Water and Add Mild Dish Soap
Fill the container with enough water to completely cover the coin you wish to clean.
To the water, add a small quantity of mild dish soap.
Avoid using too much soap since it might leave a residue on the coin.
3. Soak the Coin in Water
Make sure the coin is thoroughly submerged before dropping it into the container. To prevent damage from rubbing, don’t cram the container with too many coins.
Allow the coin to soak in the distilled water for several hours or overnight. This soaking process will help clean the coin’s surface of oxidation, dirt, and grime.
4. Brush and Rinse the Coin
After soaking, carefully clean the coin’s surface with a toothbrush with soft bristles.
After brushing, take the coin with care from the soapy water and thoroughly rinse it under cold running water.
To prevent leaving behind residue, be careful to completely remove any soap residue.
5. Pat Dry
A soft cloth or towel should be used to gently pat the coin dry. Avoid vigorous rubbing or wiping as this could scratch the surface.
2. Clean Old Coins Using the Baking Soda Paste Method
You might also clean the old coins using this easy procedure.
Baking soda was the simplest thing I could find when I attempted this technique to recover some coins I discovered in a schoolyard.
1. Assemble your Materials
To clean old coins, you will need baking soda, water, a basin, a soft toothbrush or cloth, and the coins themselves.
2. Make a Paste of Baking Soda
Simply add enough water to a little amount of baking soda to create a thick paste.
Make modifications as needed after starting with a mixture of water and baking soda that is roughly equal.
3. Apply the Paste and Scrape Gently
On the old coin, spread a thin coating of baking soda paste. Make careful to cover the surface entirely.
With a soft toothbrush or cloth, gently scrub the coin in circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard as this might damage the coin.
4. Rinse and Repeat if Necessary
After washing the coin thoroughly, rinse it in water to remove any residual baking soda paste. Check the cleanliness of the coin, and if necessary, repeat steps 3 and 4 until the desired results are attained.
5. Dry the Coin
After cleaning, wipe it dry with a soft towel or allow it to air dry. Avoid touching the coin too much since doing so might cause scratches.
3. Clean Old Coins Using Salt and Lemon Solution
I utilized this technique to clean the old coins I discovered close to a riverbank since I had access to them from a local store. Like the earlier ways, this one is simple.
Let’s look into the step-by-step guide on how to clean old coins with the Salt and Lemon Method.
1. Assemble Your Supplies
A bowl or shallow dish, table salt, a lemon, and a soft-bristled toothbrush are all required.
2. Prepare a Salt and Lemon Mixture
Slice the lemon in half, then squeeze the juice into a bowl to make the lemon and salt mixture.
A tablespoon of salt and lemon juice is added, and the mixture is then mixed to a paste-like consistency.
3. Coat the Coin
Each coin should be dipped into the mixture one at a time, making sure to evenly spread the salt and lemon paste on both sides.
4. Allow the Mixture to Sit
The coated coin should be placed aside for 5 to 10 minutes on a piece of paper or a clean surface.
This enables the acidic properties of the salt and lemon to react with any tarnish or discoloration on the coin’s surface.
5. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the coin under running water for a good while to remove the salt and lemon mixture. Ensure that you rinse the mixture off completely.
Dry the coin off with a clean, gentle towel.
After cleaning, it is essential to store the cleaned coins in a dry, controlled environment to prevent further tarnishing or corrosion.
Remember that owing to the risk of damage, this method is not advised for use with rare or valuable coins.
To guarantee effective cleaning, keep an eye on the coin as it is submerged in the salt and lemon solution.
The acid from the lemon might potentially damage the coin if it is submerged in the mixture for an extended period of time.
4. Clean Old Coins Using Commercial Coin Cleaners
Human-automated machines are evolving day by day as the world does.
To clean coins that have been metal detected, there are several commercial coin cleaners available today.
Let me list them for you all,
1. Ultrasonic Cleanser
Coins may be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners by placing them in a basket or tray and submerging it in a water and cleaning solution mixture.
This solution is subjected to ultrasonic waves, which cause bubbles to form.
These bubbles have the effect of cleansing the coins’ surfaces of dirt, filth, and other impurities.
2. MS70 Coin Cleaner
A unique cleaning agent created especially for cleaning coins is called MS70 Coin Cleaner.
It is designed to be gentle on coins’ surfaces while still doing a good job of cleaning out filth and other impurities.
Coin dealers and collectors alike frequently use MS70 Coin Cleaner because it is safe to use on a range of coins, including silver, copper, nickel, and gold.
Additionally, it is widely accessible and reasonably priced.
3. Jewelusters
Collectors frequently use Jeweluster, a cleaning agent, to clean tarnished or grimy coins.
It is a specific solution that is created to be kind to the coins’ surfaces while yet doing an excellent job of eliminating dirt and other impurities.
Anyways the same methods likely apply to cleaning copper coins too.
How to Clean Clad and Spendable Coins?
Recently, my brother asked me how to clean Clad and Spendable coins. I made a list and thought of sharing that here too.
Clad coins are ones that are sandwiched or stacked.
These coins often have an inner core made of a more valued metal and an outer core composed of less expensive metals.
Spendable coins, on the other hand, are any coins that are actively in use and recognized as legal currency.
Here are the best methods of cleaning Clad and Spendable Coins,
- Rock Tumbler
- Ultrasonic Cleanser
- Electrolysis
- Olive Oil
- Vinegar
Now, I’m going to discuss each of the above methods that can use to clean clad and spendable coins properly without damaging them.
Rock Tumbler
A rock tumbler may be a useful tool for cleaning coins, but you should use caution since washing the coins could end up damaging them and lowering their value.
Coins can be cleaned and polished with rock tumblers, but care must be taken to protect expensive or historically significant coins from being harmed.
The coins are put into the tumbler barrel along with some cleaning solution and water to begin the cleaning process.
The coin surfaces are then cleaned as a result of the tumbling movement of the coins.
Ultrasonic Cleanser
As I said before, Coins may be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners by placing them in a basket or tray and soaking it in a solution made of water and a cleaning agent.
Bubbles start to develop when ultrasonic vibrations are applied to this solution.
These bubbles have the effect of removing dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the surfaces of the coins.
Electrolysis
Coins can be cleaned with electrolysis, especially if they are severely tarnished or corroded.
This procedure involves cleaning the coin’s surface of debris, oxidation, and other impurities using an electrolyte solution and an electrical current.
In addition to some power, it needs salt, water, and crocodile pieces.
Use this for coins that may be spent but have no intrinsic historical value at all!
Get assistance from a professional if you insist on utilizing them for relic coins or relics in general.
Olive Oil
Coins made of copper or bronze may be cleaned with olive oil in a gentle and natural way.
Without inflicting any harm or changing the coin’s natural surface, it is appropriate for removing mild dirt or filth.
Vinegar
A typical home ingredient, vinegar may be used to clean a variety of items, including coins.
Vinegar has moderately acidic qualities that might help clean coins of filth and oxidation.
Typically, distilled white vinegar and water are combined in equal amounts to create a vinegar solution.
Pros and Cons of Cleaning Old Coins
Yet, there are Pros and Cons of Cleaning Old coins. Let me list them out for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Complete Cleansing | Risk of Damage |
| Protecting the Value of a coin | Reducing the rarity of it |
| Preservation | Irreversibility |
Let’s look at them in more detail,
Pros
- Complete Cleansing –Dirt, filth, or other surface impurities that make them look less appealing can be removed by cleaning coins that are detected with metal detectors.
- Protecting the Value of a coin- A coin that has been cleaned, polished, and is spotless may eventually appreciate in value.
- Preservation- A coin may be preserved for a long time by having dirt and impurities removed from its surface, which helps stop corrosion and tarnish in the future.
Cons
- Risk of Damage- If metal-detected coins are not cleaned properly, the surface may be harmed. The surface of coins can be damaged or scratched by vigorously touching them, using the incorrect cleaning solution, or employing abrasive cleaning techniques like ultrasonic cleaning.
- Reducing the rarity of it- Coins in their natural, unaltered states or ones that have not been cleaned occasionally have value to collectors. Cleaning a metal-detected coin might make it less valuable by lowering its rarity.
- Irreversibility- It is very hard to restore a coin to its initial, uncleaned state once it has been cleaned. This may be an issue if the cleaning was improperly done or if coin collectors in the future would prefer an untouched coin.
Mistakes Should Avoid When Cleaning Coins
Using Abrasive Products
Do not use strong chemicals or abrasive products, such as vinegar, bleach, or ammonia. These might damage the coin’s surface and reduce its value.
1. Rubbing the Surface
Even when using gentle tools like toothbrushes or microfiber towels, avoid vigorously rubbing the coins.
Any rubbing might cause the coin’s surface to be scratched, decreasing its value.
2. Identification of the Coin
Knowing a coin’s worth is always vital before cleaning it. It is advisable to leave the coin alone if it has a high value.
It’s a good idea to get the coin evaluated by a specialist if you’re unsure.
3. Removing Patina
A coin’s surface naturally develops a coating called patina over time, enhancing its inherent beauty.
The value of a coin can be significantly decreased by removing the patina.
4. Cleaning Most Valuable Coins
A specialist who is knowledgeable about the best cleaning techniques for each specific coin should clean rare coins of numismatic value.
That’s it folks! Now you know how to clean old coins found in the ground properly without damaging them.
Now I’m going to share with you the steps I follow to preserve old coins after cleaning them properly.
Follow the below steps to keep your metal detecting finds for a long time.
How to Preserve Old Coins After Cleaning
Preserving old coins is an exhilarating passion shared by many, whether you’re a professional numismatist or a casual hobbyist.
I remember the first time I cleaned an old coin, the magic of watching decades, even centuries, of dirt and tarnish give way to reveal the hidden details.
But what comes after the cleaning? How do we ensure these coins maintain their renewed luster for years to come?
Let’s dive deep into the world of coin preservation.
1. The Importance of Handling with Care
Personal Anecdote: My grandmother once handed me a coin from her childhood, telling me to “hold history in my hands.” I took that quite literally!
- Use Cotton Gloves: Oils and acids from our hands can tarnish a coin. Always use cotton gloves when handling coins post-cleaning. It reduces the risk of introducing new contaminants.
- Hold by the Edge: This minimizes the contact area and prevents potential damage to the coin’s face.
2. Storing Them Right
Storing coins is more than just tucking them in a drawer. It’s about creating a safe haven for these pieces of history.
Personal Anecdote: I once stored an old penny in a regular envelope, only to find its color changed due to the acid in the paper. Lesson learned!
- Acid-Free Holders: Always use acid-free paper or plastic holders. These ensure that the coins don’t react with the storage medium.
- Air-Tight Containers: Capsules or air-tight holders are ideal. They prevent external elements like dust, humidity, and pollutants from reaching the coin.
3. Control the Environment
Have you ever noticed how museums have controlled environments? It’s to ensure that artifacts remain pristine!
- Maintain Low Humidity: Moisture can be a coin’s worst enemy. Consider getting a dehumidifier or silica gel packets for your storage area.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store coins away from direct sunlight to prevent damage from UV rays. Remember, it’s always the unnoticed factors that can cause the most harm!
4. Regular Checkups
Like visiting a doctor, regular check-ups for your coins are crucial. It’s not just about the initial preservation but maintaining it.
Personal Anecdote: Every month, I have a ritual. I take out my coin collection, inspect them, and ensure they’re in the best condition. It’s therapeutic and ensures my coins remain flawless.
- Look for Signs of Corrosion: Any green spots or unusual colorations can be early signs. Address these immediately.
- Re-evaluate Storage: Sometimes, the environment changes. Ensure that the storage is still optimal for your coins.
5. Avoid PVC Plastic
Remember that penny I mentioned earlier? It was in a PVC flip. Over time, PVC releases a chemical that can damage coins.
- Opt for Mylar or Acrylic: These are safer alternatives for coin storage.
6. Resist the Urge to Over-Clean
Personal Anecdote: In my early days, I thought, “the shinier, the better!” But I learned that over-cleaning can actually reduce a coin’s value and damage its surface.
- Clean Only When Necessary: If you ever feel the need to clean a coin again, think twice. It might be best to leave it as it is.
In November 2021, archaeologists in Livorno, Italy, uncovered 175 silver Roman denarii coins dating from 157 or 156 BC to 83 or 82 BC, believed to be the life savings of a Roman soldier, now valued at 20,000 to 25,000 euros, providing invaluable historical and numismatic insights.
edition.cnn.com/travel
So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs
What’s the first step to clean an old coin I’ve just found?
Upon finding an old coin, gently brush off any loose dirt with a soft brush. Avoid using metal tools, as these can scratch the coin.
Can I use household items for cleaning?
Yes, soaking coins in olive oil or using a soft toothbrush with mild soap can help. However, avoid acidic substances like vinegar and lemon juice, as they can damage the coin’s patina.
How do I prevent scratching the coin during cleaning?
Always use soft tools, like a toothbrush with soft bristles or a cotton swab. Pressing too hard or using abrasive materials can cause scratches.
Can I clean all my coins the same way?
Different metals react differently to cleaning methods. Research the specific metal of your coin before cleaning, as what works for copper might not be suitable for silver.
What if my coin looks worse after cleaning?
Sometimes, cleaning reveals the true condition of a coin hidden under dirt. It’s essential to approach cleaning with caution and recognize that some natural patina or wear may be revealed.
Should I clean a potentially valuable coin?
If you suspect your coin might be valuable, it’s best to consult with a professional before cleaning. Improper cleaning can decrease its value.
How often should I clean my coins?
Once a coin is clean, there’s no need for frequent cleaning. Over-cleaning can deteriorate its condition and reduce its value.
Is air-drying the best way after cleaning?
Yes, air-drying is gentle and effective. Avoid rubbing the coin dry as it can introduce micro-scratches.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about: How to Clean Old Coins Found in the Ground?
In this article, I’ve explored how to clean old coins found in the ground without damaging them. I’ve shared all the techniques based on my personal experience and all the methods described above are highly recommended to keep your old coins clean.
You can select the method you love the most based on personal preference.
Cleaning millennia-old coins found in the ground is a difficult task. However, there are a number of different techniques we may use to clean the unearthed antique coins. This needs work and care since there’s a chance that cleaning the old coin might reduce its worth.
Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions as well.
Hope you’ve gained a pretty good knowledge about how to clean old coins in the ground effectively.
Now, you no longer need to worry about damaging old coins when clean that you found during metal detecting sessions.
Yes, you can follow the same methods to clean the old coins that are found without using a metal detector!
Follow the methods discussed and practice them by yourself to become a professional coin expert!
