Got this coin as a gift recently. I took it out of the holder and to my surprise there is a rubber feeling coating directly on the front and back of the coin. Is there a safe way to get it off? Would I be better off just leaving it as is?
Look real closely on the edge of the coin to see if you can detect an edge of each half of the disc. Some of these, similar to AirTites are soft plastic and are so thin that you'd think the coin was coated with something. In all likelihood, you can separate the two halves by CAREFULLY using the point of an X-acto blade. If you're able to remove the coin, be sure to check it carefully for any evidence of PVC contamination. Years ago, PVC was used as a softener for hard plastic. Chris
I wouldn't try to mess with that coin myself. The chances are, you could do more damage to it than has already been done.
I don't know about that ' rubber feeling ' thing but I want to say I looked at a similar medallion of my neighbor's. The filigree band is probably made of Sterling silver and is very soft and is worth as much as the coin. So take care in handling it. It is like 25 or 50 years old.
The band around the coin has a tiny screw I was able to take out to get a good look at the coin. Also the band is not marked anywhere. I think my plan is to leave the "rubber" stuff on it and use it as a card protector. (I am a poker player)
one of the coins i bought at berk has a protector like that. why does the coin look like it has glitter all over it?
Soak it in acetone. It is 100% harmless to the metal and toning, and will remove any oil, grease, grime, etc. It looks like it might have pretty color. I wouldn't relegate it to a poker game. Lance.
I'm with Lance....I'd free it from the bondage and soak it in acetone to remove the rubber/plastic coating. Looks like there's a nice coin under that.
I have gotten coins in those barely detectable capsules as well. I forgot what they are called, but they are a capsule that fits the coin super tight. It is 2 pieces, just like an airtite, but ultra thin so that you cannot tell it's there. I would look for that first, then soak in acetone. I had a really nice ASE that was one of those colorized (painted) coins. I soaked it in acetone, and it didn't leave a trace of paint or sign that the coin had been soaked. Just take your time and be careful.
Normally I am against cleaning any coin. However, in this case I believe I would try the acetone in hopes that it will remove the coating and the paint. If done properly the coin value may increase. Right now, it is only worth face value or a little more if you sell it as jewelry.
