Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Cleaning pennies

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Question
First, whats the best way to clean a penny? Second does it lose its value if you do clean a penny? If yes, whats the best way?

I heard dipping the penny in a soft drink coke will work.

Thank you
JP

Answer
Coins should never be cleaned, it ruins the value.
The only exception I would make is if the coin is terrible corroded or the quality is so poor that the value can not be lessened.
I never heard about using coke, but I have heard of using ketchup.  Just cover the coin with ketchup and wait a week.  The acid in the ketchup will slowly take away any dirt.

Regards
Joe Hylas
www.AllCoins.US

Coin and Paper Money Collecting

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Joe Hylas

Expertise

Numismatic professional with over 30 years experience can answer your questions about US coins, their values, how best to sell them and where to buy them. Interested in starting a collection? Find out which areas are undervalued and how to acquire those coins at the best price.

Experience

Ex-Head Precious Metals trader for Deak-Perera International with 42 offices worldwide. Industry experience since 1978. Has worked co-operatively with US Mint, Royal Canadian Mint, Austrian Mint, Chamber of Mines of South Africa, World Gold Council and Platinum Guild International. Professioanl numismatist specializing in US Coins. Always buying collections, will travel if size of collection warrants. Website: www.AllCoins.US

Organizations
PCGS, NGC, Rotary

Publications
Physician's Money Digest

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration

Awards and Honors
Paul Harris Fellow

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