So, i got some old Denarius in my collection and i want to Just Clean any dirt that has in them over soo much time being there and putting them in another coin tray. I was thinking about distilled water and soaking them for 30 minutes since most say its safe and wont harm the coin. But my question is, Will It remove the patina? And can It create horn silver after it? I was thinking about doing this process every 5 months Just to Clean up any minerals and oil from my body because of me handling It. What are your toughts?
Ancient coins have survived thousands of years exposed to the environment, with floods, heavy rain and droughts. Your distilled water is not going to hurt a thing. It will not cause any horn silver either.
Many ancient coins require conservation. Spend some time in our Ancients forum to gain insight into conservation techniques. CT has an incredible group of Ancients collectors. A fascinating bunch!!
If you are worried about oils from your hands (which you really shouldn't be unless you have some excessively greasy fingers) a short soak in acetone will alleviate your fears.
Hello @MrZun. Distilled water won't hurt the patina, as long as the patina is authentic. A fake patina made of paint or powder may dissolve in distilled water. The oils from your hands won't damage an ancient coin, unless the ancient coin has no patina or tone, in other words shiny. A shiny coin, on the other hand, can get a fingerprint from your fingers. Most ancient coins are not shiny, unless they have recently been cleaned.
