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<p>[QUOTE=&quot;YoloBagels, post: 7600631, member: 94739&quot;]I use a Q-tip sometimes when I dip coins. Although I never put force down, as rubbing it against the surface can leave hairlines. Just lightly enough to get the solution on the coin and then a thorough rinse.</p><p><br /></p><p>Q tips, Cotton, Paper, they can all scratch coins. In fact, just about anything can. The materials mentioned are known to leave hairlines on the surface of the metal.</p><p><br /></p><p>&nbsp;I am not a scientist but I believe it is the malleability and finish of the metal that can be scratched by cloth. Cotton is still an abrasive material albeit softer than most other fabrics. Combined with force, a Q tip will leave very light scratches as it moves the metal. Hairlines are usually looked over on circulated coins (Unless it&#039;s strong), but become very noticeable in AU+ grades, usually leading to details grading.</p><p><br /></p><p>Try taking two deep mirror proof coins, rubbing one a few times with a cotton cloth, and comparing them. It&#039;s the same as polishing a surface as it leaves small hairlines. Though in this case it is damaging to a coin.</p><p><br /></p><p>Oh, and as other people have said, Q tips can pick up dirt and drag it along the coin, scratching it even further. If you use a Q-tip, make sure not to put firm pressure on it.</p><p><br /></p><p>I am sure there is a more scientific answer than I can explain. Hope this helps.[/QUOTE]</p><p><br /></p>

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