About 8 or so years ago I bought a set of bu kennedy silver halves (1960s dates). I was recenttly looking at them and noticed some very small brown spots, maybe rust? Is this normal for uncirculated silver? They definitely don't look like fakes, does anyone have input. Thankyou
It's not rust. But it could be any of a lot of things. Post some pics and we can probably tell what it likely is.
Silver and gold coins are alloyed with copper, and copper can spot. It may be that or it may simply be irregular toning. It is also possible that the coin has contamination from improper handling, chemical treatment, sneezing, or airborne contaminants. Lance.
Like Ikeigwin said ,,,,Contaminants I have found that most of the time its spitial ,,is when people talk when they are handling the coins. if it the copper coming out of the silver you will, most of the time see a rasied dark spot,,,,,but close up pictures would help.
The pictures have titles when you click on them so you know which is which. The black speck you see onthe back above the eagles head on the 1969 reverse isnt on the coin it was on the holder when i took the picture. I think it could be related to handling because i bought them when i was about 8 years ago when i was 16, and didnt know enough to use white gloves, but i did handle them by the rim only. It does look to be metal related though.
Would it devalue the coins if i wipe it off with my white cotton gloves (no cleaner or liquids). If its not rust what could it be (it is brown). Also the other reverse shown has a small brown area that looks more like a tone? Anyone else have any input
Looks like insect debris that caused corrosion/toning to start in those spots. Since it is not a valuable coin, put it into the pile for melt or sell. You probably couldn't successfully remove it and the time/chemicals would be more than the coin. Jim
I would dip it instead. If it doesn't come off with pure acetone, a quick 3-5 seconds in Ezest might fix the problem. It is not a valuable coin but maybe it has sentimental value. So try saving it. Since it's white it won't change appearance. Any toning spots will be removed. One quick dip in Ezest isn't going to harm luster. If it's a copper spot or stain it is unlikely to be removed no matter what you try. Avoid rubbing at all costs. Lance.
I think that's a good plan. I don't see anyway to remove the debris from this coin without damaging it...and it's only worth melt anyway. I would just pick up another.
