Very often, numismatists, especially beginners, are faced with the question of how to clean coins. Ancient specimens require cleaning from dirt and oxides. The processing method depends on the type of metal. The cleaning process itself is the removal of various contaminants from the surface of the coin. Experienced coin collectors know how to clean coins. These are proven methods, which we will talk about in this article.
If the surface of the coin is just dirt, then this is the simplest problem. Cope with it will help warm water with soap. To cleanse, you can use a soft brush. In this case, the type of metal does not play a role. This is a gentle method that will not harm valuable coins.
It is more difficult to cope with oxidation. When removing oxide, you should focus on the quality of the metal. Gold coins can simply be washed in a warm soapy solution. Before you clean coins from silver, you should clarify its sample. If the sample is above 625, then use a special solution called silbertaushbader. Ammonia, as well as acidic fixer, which is used when developing photographs, can serve as an analogue.
If the silver of which the coin is made has a lower fineness, then you can completely immerse it in the solution. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the coins do not touch and do not lie tightly at the bottom. After a certain time they need to be turned over. After removing the plaque, the coins are wiped with a soft cloth.
How to clean copper coins? They can be washed with warm soapy water. To cleanse the oxide, they are immersed in a solution of acetic acid 5-10%. You can also use plain table vinegar.
This process can be very lengthy, depending on the degree of contamination. The cleaning time lasts from a few minutes to a month. But initially it is necessary to clarify the nature of oxidation.
If the coin has a greenish oxide, this is the heaviest pollution. Such oxidation occurs when vapors of acetic acid come in contact with oxygen. It is difficult to cleanse. In case of severe contamination with copperfish, it is better to use the services of a specialist.
How to clean copper coins, except for acetic acid? An ammonia solution may also be used . Drop the coin into a container with ammonia. It must be periodically turned over, but not removed from the solution. In contact with air, it may be irreparably damaged. After cleaning, add water to the solution to reduce the concentration. When it reaches a small limit, you can pull a coin from the container. This method should be used very carefully.
For cleaning coins use the achievements of the chemical industry. For this, any plaque and rust remover is suitable. Pour the product into the prepared container and place the coin there. The cleaning time is 15 minutes. After that, the coin is washed and wiped.
As a result of purification, copper coins may acquire a slightly reddish hue. This is a temporary phenomenon that happens due to the destruction of the patina. But gradually it will recover, and the coin will become a natural color.
If the contamination has a greasy structure, then other cleaning agents are used. Excellent in this case, organic solvents are suitable. Among the most famous drugs are acetone, white spirit and others.
Cleaning a coin is a very serious matter. With the wrong choice of drug, it can be completely ruined. Therefore, if you are not completely sure that you know how to clean coins, consult a specialist in this field.
After using any product, it is very necessary to rinse the coin with soap and water. Instances that are not of great value can be cleaned using toothpaste.