| |
You are here: Experts > Shopping > Coin Collecting > Coin Collecting > collecting
Expert: PAPAJACK - 11/4/2009
Question
I have a question is about handling and cleaning of coins - will my coins lose value if you clean them??
Answer
Hello Marc,
Let me first state as a Professional Coin Collector that coins are worthless to coin collectors after having been cleaned. There is usually no reason to clean a coin. Unless there is a substance on the surface that is destroying the coin (like acid, PVC damage etc.) do not try to clean the coin. Any coin that has ever been cleaned will sell for much less.
True coin collectors don't recommend cleaning coins at all.
When a coin is cleaned the original surface is removed thus removing the luster that the purest collectors want to see.
The cleaned surface allows other contaminates to attack the surface. Also the cleaning may deposit other particles on the surface.
Also note that coins that are naturally toned (especially silver coins) bring higher prices than cleaned coins. Usually double the amount. Also if the coins have an unusual blue, olive, or rainbow colored toning they sometimes can be sold for many times their usual price.
Cleaning of Bronze, Copper, Silver or any coin renders it virtually valueless! Collectors would rather have a dark deep chocolate brown specimen or spotty brown than a cleaned coin. Even rubbing a coin with a very soft cloth can leave minute scratches on the surface that will adversely affect collector value.
To improve a coin's appearance it sometimes in the past was acceptable--on a very limited basis to gently swish it in a diluted solution of pure soap, rinse with distilled water and allow to air dry. (Or pat dry lightly with a very soft cloth) Never use any type of commercial jewelry polish on coins. These compounds contain abrasive grit that will mar their surface, and if used often will eventually wear away the metal. The same advice goes for "home remedies" such as vinegar, lemon juice, tomato juice, etc. All will do more harm than good.
Feel free to make me one of your favorite experts at this site. Ask any question on U.S. Coins.
Please remember to rate this answer. And check the nomination box below any comments you may have. Thank You.
Below is an excerpt from a professional society (authorized by the US Congress) in reference to cleaning coins:
“Rule number one of coin collecting is "DON'T CLEAN YOUR COINS." Improper cleaning will reduce the collector value of your coins by 50 percent or more so don't clean your coins.
Please remember to rate this answer and check the expert nomination box on the rating page.
If there any more information you require on this question just ask.
Thank You and Good Luck
PapaJack
Ask a Question
|
|
