Thoughts on condition/appearance of this Theodosius I AE3?

Discussion in 'Ancient Coins' started by Dobbin, Aug 27, 2020.

  1. Dobbin

    Dobbin Active Member

    I was the only bidder on this coin and it was cheap, but in-hand it seems odd so maybe that's why. There is a strange sheen to it like it had been cleaned and/or somehow lightly waxed. As a newcomer I don't know what I am looking at as far as condition. It's hard to quite photograph what I mean but perhaps experienced eyes will see what I mean.

    IMG_20200827_173129258.jpg IMG_20200827_173200108.jpg

    Thank you in advance as always!
     
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  3. Kentucky

    Kentucky Well-Known Member

    Possibly Ren Wax
     
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  4. Robert Ransom

    Robert Ransom Well-Known Member

    Looks good to me, but then, I know nothing about Ancients.
     
  5. furryfrog02

    furryfrog02 Well-Known Member

    Looks like it has wax on it to me as well. Probably Renwax or something like it.
     
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  6. Valentinian

    Valentinian Well-Known Member

    Alegandron and Dobbin like this.
  7. Dobbin

    Dobbin Active Member

    Can a wax treatment be removed? Should I bother is the real question.
    Theo I Obverse.jpg Theo I Reverse.jpg
     
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  8. Kentucky

    Kentucky Well-Known Member

    some waxes are more resistant than others, start with acetone and a toothbrush and then, if no results, try xylene.
     
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  9. hotwheelsearl

    hotwheelsearl Well-Known Member

    If you don't like the wax coating, just toss it in either vinegar or lye for a few minutes and it should take all the wax right off.

    Beware: wax is often applied to hide something.
     
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  10. Dobbin

    Dobbin Active Member

    I think for a $7 ancient I'm not going to worry about it other than the desire to understand what I am looking at.

    Thank you all again.
     
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  11. Kentucky

    Kentucky Well-Known Member

    Uh...think I would try acetone and xylene before this. Both vinegar or lye can cause surface changes to metals.
     
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  12. hotwheelsearl

    hotwheelsearl Well-Known Member

    Yea you’re right, I think I’ve ingested too much lye
     
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