I read this somewhere; "Accumulated dirt and grime can usually be safely removed from a coin with the application of petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) to both sides using a cotton-tipped swab (such as a Q-tip). Carefully remove the residue with clean swabs and finish with a soft, lint-free cloth." I haven't tried it yet, let us know how it works. Always try on your face valued coins.
I believe that is an ingredent in Dellers Darkener, Vaseline and sulfur powder. I wouldnt darken my coins but I think Vaseline is acid free and if you put your coin in it, let it sit for a bit, then wipe it off, it would not only lightly clean it but it would leave a protective coating though I dont know if it would have unintended consequences...The Ren Wax has been time tested. I have heard people say it works. Maybe try it on a cheap LRB, give it a little time and see what you think, give us a report.
Guys people have used everthing there is under the sun to try and protect their coins. They have coated them with every oil or oil product known to man. They have coated them with shellac, lacquer, polyurethane, acrylic, fingernail polish, all kinds of wax - anything and everything. And you can find it all written someplace. But the the bottom line is this - if you want to protect your coins then do so with proper storage methods. Don't do it by coating the coin with a foreign substance.
Thats just an opinion...one that I think is quite incorrect when it comes to antiquities. People have tried to protect valuable antiquities for ages, you are right... and done so with success through trial and error, not saying...just do it this way...its the only way and all that need be done. I have a feeling I might be better off taking the advice of professional conservationists who specialize in ancient coins, of course, just my opinion. Proper storage is well and good but unless the coin is floating in a vacuum, sometimes other methods might be advisable. My 2 cents.
OK, but which ones ? There are far more professional conservationists who will tell you to leave the coins alone than there are those who will tell you to coat the coins with some substance. That's why it's an individual choice Drusus - there are two schools of thought on this subject, not just one.
I got a feeling we're talking oil and vineger here , what's ok for ancients is a definative no with US coinage . rzageencil:
I certainly agree that there are two schools of thoughts and they are often time divided by type of coin. I disagree that there are far more professional conservationists who would tell you to leave an ancient coin alone. Most ancients have been treated long before they got into our hands, save the uncleaned. The ones I am refering to are people who care for some of the most important historical collections as said before, not to mention many others, ancients collectors and sellers. You can find many of their supply lists and ren wax will be on it. Unless you are saying its WRONG to use it, then I assume its a given one is never FORCED to use ren wax and there are other choices out there. I dont think I have ever said there arent choices, but lets all remember that there ARE choices.
