Every coin tells a story – from the well-worn penny discovered in an old drawer to the prized silver dollar passed down through generations. But when these precious pieces of history become tarnished or dirty, many collectors face a crucial question: how can coins be cleaned safely without diminishing their value?
At CV Coins & Collectables in Chula Vista, we’ve seen countless valuable coins damaged by improper cleaning techniques. The truth is, cleaning coins isn’t as straightforward as wiping down your kitchen counter. One wrong move can transform a valuable collectible into a common coin worth merely its face value.
As San Diego County’s trusted coin experts for over five decades, we understand the delicate balance between preservation and restoration. Before you attempt any coin cleaning, it’s crucial to understand both the risks and proper techniques involved.
Safe Methods: How to Clean Old Coins Without Damage
First- Speak to someone who knows about valuable coins. Do not clean until you are sure it is not a valuable coin.
When it comes to cleaning coins, gentler is always better. Here are our expert-recommended methods for safely cleaning coins, ranked from least to most intensive:
The Distilled Water Method
This is the safest way to clean coins with minimal risk:
- Rinse with room-temperature distilled water
- Let soak for 5-10 minutes
- Gently pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth
- Allow to air dry completely
The Gentle Soap Solution
For slightly more stubborn dirt:
- Use pure acetone-free dish soap (1 drop per cup of distilled water)
- Soak for no more than 15 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly with distilled water
- Air dry on a soft cotton towel
The Olive Oil Soak
Particularly effective for ancient coins:
- Submerge coin in pure olive oil
- Let soak for 1-2 weeks
- Remove and gently wipe with a soft cloth
- Rinse with distilled water
When to Clean vs. When Not to Clean Coins
When to Clean:
- Non-valuable modern coins for personal collections
- Coins with active corrosion that threatens their integrity
- Recently excavated coins covered in soil
- Coins showing signs of PVC damage
When NOT to Clean:
- Rare or valuable coins (those worth more than $100)
- Coins with natural toning
- Ancient coins without active corrosion
- Proof or uncirculated coins
- Coins you plan to sell or have graded
At CV Coins & Collectables, we always recommend professional evaluation before attempting any cleaning of potentially valuable pieces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Coins
These practices can severely damage your coins:
Chemical Treatments to Avoid:
- Commercial silver cleaners
- Vinegar or lemon juiceÂ
- Baking soda paste
- Metal polishes
- Jewelry cleaners
Harmful Physical Cleaning Methods:
- Rubbing with abrasive materials
- Using toothbrushes or other brushes
- Scraping with metal tools
- Excessive handling during cleaning
Environmental Mistakes:
- Cleaning in direct sunlight
- Using tap water (contains harmful minerals)
- Extreme temperature changes
- Poor ventilation when using any solutions
Pro Tip: Coins have 3 sides- Top, bottom and edge- Always hold coins by their edges, and consider wearing cotton gloves during the cleaning process. Better yet, bring your valuable coins to CV Coins & Collectables for a free evaluation before attempting any cleaning methods at home.
Professional Coin Cleaning Services
When it comes to preserving valuable coins, sometimes the best way to clean coins is to trust the experts. Professional (Preservation) cleaning services offer specialized knowledge and equipment that can make the difference between preservation and permanent damage.
Benefits of Professional Cleaning
Choosing professional services offers numerous advantages:
- Expertise: Access to trained numismatists with years of experience
- Equipment: Professional-grade cleaning and preservation tools
- Insurance: Protection against potential damage.Â
- Documentation: Professional records of the cleaning process
- Guidance: Expert advice on future preservation
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your valuable coins are in expert hands
Learning how to clean coins properly is crucial for any collector or enthusiast. Whether you’re dealing with modern coins or precious antiquities, the right cleaning approach can mean the difference between preservation and destruction. Remember these key points:
- Always evaluate a coin’s value before cleaning
- Use the gentlest cleaning method possible
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials
- Consider professional cleaning for valuable pieces
- Proper storage is as important as proper cleaning
At CV Coins & Collectables, we’re committed to helping you preserve your numismatic treasures for future generations. Our expert team is ready to assist with all your coin cleaning and preservation needs.
Visit Us Today
Location: 397 3rd Ave, Suite D, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm by appointment only; open to the public 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
- Sunday: By appointment only
- Holidays: Call for hours
Contact:
- Phone: (619) 427-9154 Text: (619) 838-3085
- Email: info@chulavistacoins.com
- Website: https://chulavistacoins.com/Â
Stop by for a free evaluation of your coins and expert advice on cleaning and preservation. Whether you’re a serious collector or just starting your numismatic journey, we’re here to help protect and preserve your valuable pieces.
Remember, when it comes to how to clean old coins, the safest approach is often the most conservative one. Trust CV Coins & Collectables to guide you in making the best decisions for your collection’s care and preservation.