What is the best and safest way to clean old coins?

Question

We have a bunch of old coins that are very dirty. What is the best way to clean them without damaging them?

Answer 1

I use Tarn-X. You can get it at most hardware stores..

Answer 2

DON'T If the coins have any real value it can be destroyed by improper cleaning. Other than washing in plan water do not use any chemicals on them. A patina on old coins is to be expected and does not lessen their value. You may want to start storing them in air tight coin protectors so the do not tarnish more.
All of the other methods mentioned will reduce the value of the coins please don't use tarnex on old coins.

Answer 3

This is a silver cleaning method but it works on alot of metals. Place a small section on tin foil in a pot shiny side up. Add 1-2 inches of water and about 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Let come to a boil and drop in items. Let boil 2-3 mins and the drain. When cool enough to touch, wipe with a clean dry cloth.

Answer 4

A little soap and water for surface dirt. If any are valuable, don't clean them at all. Let a professional do that.

Answer 5

leave them in some coke over night , you´ll be surprised to see just how clean they become. Makes you think if it does the same job for our insides

Answer 6

There is this product called "Brasso". It cleans alot of things such as silver, jewelry, copper, chrome etc. I bought some at wal-mart in the cleaning section where the funiture polish stuff is. Works great. :)

Answer 7

lemon juice and baking soda. make a paste and rub it onto the coins then wipe it off.

Answer 8

soak them in warm water and bicarbonate of soda - it's gentle but will clean them up like new overnight with no rubbing!

Answer 9

Silver cleaner or copper cleaner, you can find it at the grocery store, it works great.

Answer 10

Vinegar. SOak in it overnight.