Hey All, i am fairly new to coin collecting, and know that cleaning coins can ruin the value, but what about new coins? Years from now, can someone tell if that coin has been cleaned? Thanks in advance, Jeff
Hello! A lot depends on how the coin was cleaned, and who is trying to tell. Some methods of cleaning can leave evidence that will be unmistakenable for however long the coin exists. Other methods are almost indetectible. Good luck!
Cleaning When in doubt don't If you must - pay a professional to do it. It will save you money in the long run
Thanks for the tip. I know it is well intentioned advice, and I appreciate it very much. As for myself, I would never have a reason to pay a so-called "professional" coin cleaner for his services. That would be the best way to save money, IMHO.
Any Advice On How To Clean Coins That Were In A House Fire???any Advice Would Be Great Cant Afford A Professional...thanks
Ah, I've got a few charred black ones too... I doubt they have much value anymore. So, is it worth cleaning them to at least salvage appearance?
What composition coins? What kind of damage? Was there any melting or distortion caused by the heat? Were any coins discolored by the heat? Were they coated in any way? Did they come in contact with household chemicals? The answer to your question could be very different for gold coins versus bronze, silver, aluminum, zinc, copper, etc.; or based on the answers to the other questions.
YES. I/we see coins that were cleaned 100+ years ago and can still tell at a glance that they've been cleaned. Best rule of thumb is to never EVER clean a coin with anything, for any reason. that's the safest thing. Re; coins that have been in a fire. Yes depending on the severity of the charring, the black can sometimes be removed but the coin will still be recognized as a cleaned coin, probably forever. So decide which is the lesser of two evils, I guess Nick
