7 EASY Ways to Clean Old Copper Coins Found Metal Detecting

Ever unearthed an old copper coin while metal detecting? Wonder how to restore its hidden charm without damage? Dive in and learn the safe way!

I recently dug up some copper coins when metal detecting, it was an exciting moment, and among other things, I probably wondered if they were worth anything.

The copper coins were covered with mud and dirt as they were buried for so long, maybe centuries. I couldn’t recognize the values of those.

So, I wanted them clean and tried wiping the dirt off. But as they were deposited in mud for so long they couldn’t be removed.

I did some research about this and went for experts’ ideas about cleaning old copper coins.

Here’s what I’ve found about, How to Clean Old Copper Coins Metal Detecting?

To clean old copper coins from metal detecting, soak them in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and salt for 20-30 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush, rinse with distilled water, and pat dry. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials to preserve the coin’s details and patina.

As I said, there are different ways that we could use to clean the old copper coins. 

If you are really looking forward in those, join me in this article as I guide you step-by-step on how to clean Old Copper Coins.

Just keep reading!

How to Clean Old Copper Coins Metal Detecting

As old copper coins found when metal detecting are buried in soil for centuries, it is risky to clean them. It is because we might lose the value of the coin.

Read to know the best places to find copper items (coins)

The copper will have oxidized and created a patina, a layer of green corrosion that protects the metal from further deterioration while preserving the details seen on the coin’s face.

This patina may be highly valuable since it tells how long the cash has been buried and gives collectors some clue of when in history it originates from.

Therefore it is better to not clean the copper coins that were found buried in the soil for centuries.

However, there are alternatives available if you insist on cleaning your copper coins or if it is obvious that the copper coin you own is a penny that is probably already in use.

Let me guide you with the best ways to clean copper coins without removing the coin’s distinguishing features as I did.

There are Basic and Advanced methods we could go for when cleaning Old Copper Coins.

Basic Methods to Clean Old Copper Coins

1. Soak coins using Distilled Water
2. Salt and Lemon
3. Vinegar Solution
4. Hot Sauce
5. Baking soda paste

Advanced Methods to Clean Old Copper Coins

6. Electrolysis
7. Ultrasonic Cleaner

Let’s look more into Basic and Advanced Methods.

Basic Methods Of Cleaning Old Copper Coins

Let’s discuss each of the basic methods of cleaning old copper coins in detail.

1. Soak Coins using Distilled Water

This is the simplest method you could go for if you are really willing to obtain the old crusty copper coin as it is without making a scratch or damage on it.

This is the method I used at first when I detected copper coins while I was detecting metals in a schoolyard.

Let me guide you with the steps I followed when cleaning with Distilled water.

Initially, I needed a small container, a soft toothbrush, distilled water, and a piece of towel for drying. I filled the container with distilled water and soaked the coins carefully.

Make sure you don’t place too many coins because they may damage from rubbing.

I soaked the coins overnight. This step helps in removing oxidation, filth, and grime from the coin’s surface. 

After soaking, I removed the coins from the container and held it gently without causing any damage.

Then I brushed the surface of the coin using the toothbrush very gently. To remove any leftover dirt, I held the coin under running pure water.

After rinsing I cleaned the coin using a piece of towel. The copper coin was clean but still there were some dirt particles stained well that couldn’t be removed.

Before you try it, the approach still has Pros and Cons. Let me make a list.

Pros

• Distilled water is usually accessible therefore this method can be easily done.
• Distilled water is found to be very clean therefore no chance of any chemical reactions.

Cons

• As I said, there were some dirt particles stained well. As we know water has no powerful cleaning properties like acids to clean them off.
• Though the water was safe to clean, it didn’t bring back the shining and luster property of the coin back.
• As we all know moisture in metals can make them corrode or damage, so make sure you wipe all water off while cleaning.

2. Salt and Lemon

I’ve used this method to clean the copper coins I found near an alley because I could access them from a shop nearby. This method is easy too as the previous methods.

Let’s look into the steps on how to clean copper coins by the Salt and Lemon Method.

All I needed was table salt, lemon, a shallow dish and a soft toothbrush. I made a paste of lemon and salt by mixing them in halves.

Then I dipped each copper coin in to make sure to uniformly coat both sides with the salt and lemon paste. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes.

This enables any tarnish or discoloration on the coin’s surface to be reacted with by the salt’s and lemon’s acidic characteristics.

I brushed the coin gently without damaging it so that excess dirt could be removed. To get rid of the salt and lemon combination, I thoroughly rinsed the coin under running water.

Then I dried them with a towel. To avoid future tarnishing or corrosion, it is crucial to preserve the cleaned coins in a dry, regulated atmosphere after cleaning.

Keep an eye on the coin as it is immersed in the salt and lemon solution to ensure proper cleaning. 

Avoid immersing the coin in the mixture for a longer amount of time since the acid from the lemon might potentially harm the coin.

Though I could get a good result using this method, I found that my friend’s coins had some damage.

Let me list you all the Pros and Cons of this method before you start.

Pros

• As lemons are common home goods, they are cost effective.
• This approach is safer to use than any acid being used.

Cons

• Coins are damaged with excess rubbing of salt and lemon and lowers their value. Toning or patina can increase the value of some precious or collectible coins.
• There is a risk of over cleaning, the salt and lemon solution can erode the copper coin’s surface if applied too frequently or vigorously.

3. Vinegar Solution

Using Vinegar solution to clean old copper coins is an instant method we could go for. But be attentive, because vinegar is an acid, if you do not follow the steps correctly you could make damages in the coin.

Let’s look into the steps on how to clean copper coins by using Vinegar Solution.

White vinegar, soft toothbrush, a small dish, a clean towel and distilled water is all you need. Combine half cup of water with half cup of vinegar.

Soak the copper coins completely and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Acetic acid, which is included in vinegar, can aid in the removal of oxidation and surface grime from coins.

After the soaking period brush the surface of the coin in a circular motion with a soft toothbrush.

This brushing motion will aid in the loosening of the filth and dirt. Be careful not to scrape too hard to avoid scratching the coin. Then wipe it off using a towel and avoid damage.

Though these steps look easy to perform they still have Pros and Cons. Let me list them.

Pros

• Acetic acid found in vinegar, especially white vinegar, helps dissolve and remove tarnish off copper coins, restoring their luster. Tarnish may be removed using this acid successfully.
• Acetic acid in vinegar works as a mild abrasive to remove rust and stains quickly as compared to using distilled water alone.

Cons

• Since vinegar is an acid, prolonged or excessive contact with copper coins, especially valuable or collectible ones, may cause them to corrode. The cleaning process must be closely monitored, and coins should not be left in the vinegar solution for a lengthy amount of time.
• Unlike distilled water, vinegar has the ability to slightly discolor the surfaces of coins, altering their appearance. This could be more visible on coins with intricate patinas or designs.

4. Hot Sauce

This is a crazy method that one could do. Fun Fact: Hot sauce is more helpful to clean an old copper coin than eating it with spaghetti!

This is an easy method and let me guide you with steps.

All you need is a hot sauce with minimal additives so they do not damage the coin, soft toothbrush, small container and water. Add hot sauce in a small container and dip the copper coin in it.

Let it sit for a few minutes and gently brush it. Wash it with water and make sure you wipe it well.

After washing, examine the coin. You know you’ve cleaned something when it looks cleaner and brighter. 

However, keep in mind that changing the coin’s natural patina can make it less valuable as a numismatic item and less attractive to the eye.

Let’s look into the Pros and Cons of this process too!

Pros

• Hot Sauce is easily accessible and can be found in every household.
• Mild cleaning. The acidity and spices in hot sauce can help clean up the look of copper coins by removing dirt, filth, and oxidation from their surface.

Cons

• Even with gentle cleaning techniques, copper coins may lose some of their numismatic value. Since modifications may diminish a coin’s historical relevance and aesthetic appeal, collectors frequently choose coins with their natural patina.

5. Baking Soda Paste

This too is a simple method you could use to clean the old copper coins. I used this method when I found some coins in my backyard, and Baking soda was the easiest accessible ingredient for me.

Let’s look into the steps on how to clean copper coins by Soak method using Baking Soda Paste Method.

All you need is baking soda, water, a container and a soft toothbrush. Make a thick paste using baking soda and water.

Apply the paste and completely cover the surface of the coin. Gently brush it in circular motion.

Rinse it with water. You can continue this step 3-4 times if you feel like cleaning the coin more. Let it air dry or pat it dry with a soft towel. Avoid excessively touching the coin as this might result in scratches.

Let’s look into the Pros and Cons of this method!

Pros

• A mild abrasive like baking soda may effectively remove rust, dirt, and grime off copper coin surfaces.
• As a common household item, baking soda is easily accessible to the majority of people.

Cons

• A loss of patina. Copper coins may develop a priceless patina over time that adds character. This biological patina may be partially or completely removed by cleaning with baking soda paste, which might make coin collecting less alluring.

Advanced Methods Of Cleaning Old Copper Coins

6. Electrolysis

This is an advanced method if you are looking to clean your old copper coins thinking it has more value. Let me give you some ideas on how to carry on this!

First, set up an electrolysis setup with a water container and a separator to distinguish the coins from the sacrificial metal in order to clean copper coins. Sacrificial metal and coins should be wired together with a power supply.

Make sure the coins don’t come in contact with the sacrifice metal when you submerge them in. Turn on the power source to begin the electrolysis process.

When you’re through cleaning, disconnect the power supply and take out the coins. Dry them carefully after rinsing them with clean water.

Use caution while handling pricey or rare coins. This way you can clean your old copper coins through Electrolysis.

As everyone knows, every method has Pros and Cons. Let’s look into them.

Pros

• This can clean your coins well without any damages and restore the shine.
• This can be performed easily in a small space without any specialized skills.

Cons

• For copper coins with delicate features or fragile surfaces, electrolysis might not be the best option. Coins that are valuable or have historical significance may need to be conserved using expert techniques.

7. Ultrasonic Cleaner

Cleaning your coins using an ultrasonic cleaner is simple. The fact that it is big enough to clean anything is one of its benefits.

Let’s look into the steps of how this is performed!

Before you clean your coins with an Ultrasonic cleaner, make sure you remove the loose dirt from them. Add a small amount of detergent to water that is designed to clean copper coins in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Put the coins in the basket and pour the solution over them. Turn on the cleaner after setting the timer as directed.

Repeat this a few times till the coins are clean. Then wipe it off with a clean towel.

Let’s look into the Pros and Cons of this approach!

Pros

• This is a more effective, easy and quick way to clean off all the dirt in the coins.

Cons

• There is a risk of damage to the coins when the frequency of the Ultrasonic cleaner is set high.
• The special cleaning solution may be costly.

Congrats folks! Now you know how to clean old copper coins that find when metal detecting.

Now I’m going to share with you what steps you should take to preserve those coins after cleaning.

How to Preserve Old Copper Coins After Cleaning

You’ve spent considerable time cleaning your old copper coins and now they gleam, looking almost as fresh as the day they were minted.

But cleaning is only half the journey. Once the coins are clean, it’s equally vital to ensure they are stored properly to maintain their restored state.

Here’s how to preserve those coins, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your collection for years to come.

Choose the Right Storage

After investing effort in cleaning, you wouldn’t want your coins to get tarnished quickly, would you?

Choosing the right storage method is paramount. Coins should be kept in air-tight holders or coin flips.

For example, when I cleaned my first set of copper coins, I immediately placed them in coin flips.

Not only did it keep them safe, but I also had the pleasure of clearly seeing both sides without handling them directly.

Example: PVC-free plastic coin flips are a great choice, as they offer visibility while protecting coins from air and moisture.

But be wary of PVC-containing holders—they can damage your coins over time.

Maintain Optimal Environment

The space where you store your coins plays a massive role in their preservation. Aim for a cool, dry, and dark place.

I remember storing some of my coins in the basement, but a sudden flood destroyed many.

I learned the hard way that it’s essential to ensure the storage area isn’t prone to dampness or direct sunlight.

Example: Consider purchasing a humidity-controlled storage box or cabinet. These are designed to keep moisture at bay, preserving the shine and luster of your coins.

Handle with Care

Always handle coins by their edges. I learned this from a coin-collecting mentor of mine.

Oils and dirt from our fingers can tarnish the coin surface, undoing all the cleaning effort.

And trust me, you’ll feel the sting of regret when you see a fingerprint on your shiny copper coin!

Example: For extra precaution, use soft, cotton gloves when handling coins. They’re inexpensive and widely available at coin shops or online.

Regularly Check Your Collection

I make it a point to inspect my collection periodically.

This not only allows me to admire the coins but also ensures they are in good condition.

If a coin starts to show signs of tarnish or corrosion, early detection can save the day.

Example: Set aside time, maybe once every few months, to go through your collection.

This routine not only helps in monitoring the coins’ condition but also provides moments of nostalgia and pride.

Avoid Chemical Exposure

Post-cleaning, it’s tempting to coat coins with lacquers or other protective chemicals, thinking it might provide an added layer of protection.

I too thought about this once. However, many seasoned coin collectors warned against it.

Such coatings can alter the coin’s appearance over time and reduce its numismatic value.

Example: If you’re keen on applying a protective layer, opt for renowned coin preservation solutions available in the market after thorough research and expert consultation.

An estimated 60% of ancient copper coins still buried or undiscovered are corroded or oxidized, making preservation after cleaning a crucial step for collectors and enthusiasts.

www.copper.org

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

FAQs

Read to know more info about copper metal detecting,

• Does a Copper IUD Set off Metal Detectors?
• Do Copper Compression Socks Set Off Metal Detectors?

Did I cover all you wanted to know about How to Clean Old Copper Coins Metal Detecting?

In this article, I’ve deeply explored how to clean old copper coins metal detecting by taking 7 different methods and I’ve explained the steps that I’ve followed with real-life examples. Plus, I’ve shared with you the pros and cons of each method as well.

Cleaning antique copper coins that have been buried for millennia is not an easy operation. However, there are various more approaches we may take to clean the ancient, oxidized copper coins that were discovered. Due to the possibility that we may impair the copper coin’s value when cleaning, this requires effort and attention.

Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions as well.

Now you know all you need to know about cleaning old copper coins that you detect upon treasure hunting. 

Clean and preserve them to increase their durability and old coins will be a nice memory for your entire metal-detecting carrier.