Cleaning half dollars

I just found in some bank rolls several NIFC half dollars and a couple of proof halves with some greasy looking crud on them. How should I clean them?

 

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General i don't like to tell people to clean coins because it is a big no no !! But in this case being they arent worth much you might as well give them a rinse !!

 

Soap and water? Vinegar?

 

A little acetone from the hardware store (not nail polish) wouldn't hurt.

 

acetone

 

Vinegar has acid so steer clear of that. Soap will leave a residue on the coin which may show up weeks later in the form of spotting. The acetone shouldn't harm anything. Soak the coin in the acetone for a few minutes and observe the results. Longer soaks may be required. Just don't forget about the coin that's soaking. After you feel that the coin is ready to come out of the bath, rinse it with distilled water and allow it to dry on a soft surface.

 

Agreed the only thing being i don't know how acetone will affect the finish of the the proofs as i have never tried to clean one !! But it is worth a try i would be interested to see the results !!

 

I've never tried it on proofs either. I'll have to do a little experimenting with some hazy Ikes......

 

Thanks all for the quick advice. I'll try the acetone and let you know.

 

What ever you decide to use, REMEMBER to use it at "Half" strength.

 

So what do you cut acetone with?

 

Nothing. Us it straight. Be careful, it's highly flammable.

 

Take it straight.......like I take bourbon.

 

Do the acetone treatment OUTDOORS.

 

Ron,
If you have a chance some before and after cleaning photos would be instructive.

Good luck.

 

You should not be using enough acetone to require taking it outdoors. It only requires about half a shot glass full.

 

That's all I can drink, too.

 

I think acetone might kill you. I only drink ethanol and water in OJ.

 

And I thought that was an ancient Chinese secret. j/k

 

Use acetone outdoors. Period.