Nothing says “forgotten treasure” like a jar of dirty coins collecting dust in some forgotten corner of the house. You could cash them in but dirty coins lose their value fast, so cleaning them is essential. But how do you clean dirty coins? After all, they’re covered in grime, dirt, and who knows what else. The good news is that cleaning dirty coins is actually quite easy. With just a few simple steps, you can restore your coins to their former glory. And the best part is, you don’t need any harsh chemicals or expensive equipment. All you need are a few household items that you probably already have on hand.
To start, you’ll need to gather your supplies. You’ll need a bowl of warm water, a mild dish soap, a soft brush or toothbrush, and a clean towel. Once you have your supplies, you can start cleaning your coins. First, soak your coins in the warm water for a few minutes. This will help to loosen the dirt and grime. Then, add a few drops of dish soap to the water and use the brush to gently scrub your coins. Be sure to rinse your coins thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing them. Finally, pat your coins dry with a clean towel.
If your coins are particularly dirty, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution. You can make a paste of baking soda and water and use it to scrub your coins. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that will help to remove stubborn dirt and grime. However, be careful not to use too much baking soda, as it can damage your coins. Once you’ve cleaned your coins, you can either store them in a coin collection or spend them. If you’re storing your coins, be sure to keep them in a dry place to prevent them from tarnishing.
Gather Your Materials
To get started, you’ll need to gather a few essential materials:
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Coins:
Obviously, you’ll need the dirty coins you want to clean. Make sure they’re not extremely valuable or delicate, as some cleaning methods can damage certain coins.
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Water:
Tap water is fine, but distilled water is preferred as it contains fewer impurities that can leave spots on the coins.
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Soap:
Use a mild dish soap or a specially formulated coin cleaning soap. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive soaps, as these can scratch the coins.
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Container:
You’ll need a container to hold the water and coins while you’re cleaning them. A bowl, jar, or even a plastic bag can work.
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Soft cloths:
You’ll need a few soft cloths to wipe down the coins after cleaning. Microfiber cloths are a good choice as they won’t leave lint.
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Cotton swabs (optional):
Cotton swabs can be useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas on the coins.
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Gloves (optional):
If you’re handling large quantities of coins or have sensitive skin, gloves can protect your hands.
Inspecting and Sorting the Coins
Visual Inspection:
Thoroughly examine each coin under strong lighting or a magnifying glass. Identify any signs of damage, such as scratches, dents, or corrosion. Note the coin’s condition and whether it is worth cleaning.
Identifying Coin Material:
Coins can be made from various metals like copper, silver, gold, or alloys. Knowing the material is crucial for selecting the appropriate cleaning method. To identify the metal, consult coin catalogs or use a simple test. Drop the coin in a glass of water. If it sinks quickly, it is likely copper or silver. If it sinks slowly or floats, it may be gold or an alloy.
Sort by Denomination and Metal:
Separate coins based on their denomination and metal type to facilitate efficient cleaning. This will ensure that coins of similar material and value receive appropriate treatment.
| Denomination | Common Metal |
|---|---|
| Penny | Copper |
| Nickel | Nickel |
| Dime | Silver (pre-1965) / Clad (1965-present) |
| Quarter | Silver (pre-1965) / Clad (1965-present) |
| Half-dollar | Silver (pre-1971) / Clad (1971-present) |
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
The first step in cleaning dirty coins is to choose the right cleaning method. There are several different methods to consider, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best method for you will depend on the type of coins you have, how dirty they are, and your own personal preferences.
Chemical Cleaning
Chemical cleaning is a common method for cleaning coins. This method involves soaking the coins in a chemical solution that dissolves the dirt and grime. Chemical cleaning can be effective for removing heavy dirt and grime, but it can also damage the coins if it is not done properly. It is important to use a chemical solution that is specifically designed for cleaning coins and to follow the instructions carefully.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective for removing heavy dirt and grime | Can damage coins if not done properly |
| Quick and easy to do | Requires special chemicals and equipment |
Electrolytic Cleaning
Electrolytic cleaning is a method for cleaning coins that uses an electric current to remove dirt and grime. This method is very effective for removing heavy dirt and grime, but it can also damage the coins if it is not done properly. It is important to use a reputable coin cleaner and to follow the instructions carefully.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very effective for removing heavy dirt and grime | Can damage coins if not done properly |
| Quick and easy to do | Requires special equipment |
Mechanical Cleaning
Mechanical cleaning is a method for cleaning coins that uses a brush or other tool to remove dirt and grime. This method is less effective than chemical or electrolytic cleaning, but it is also less likely to damage the coins. Mechanical cleaning is a good option for cleaning coins that are not heavily soiled.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less likely to damage coins | Not as effective as chemical or electrolytic cleaning |
| Can be done with simple tools | Time-consuming |
Cleaning Silver Coins with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can be used to clean silver coins. To use it, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the coin and rub it with a soft cloth. Rinse the coin thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft towel.
Cleaning Gold Coins with Olive Oil
Olive oil is a good choice for cleaning gold coins. It is a gentle cleaner that will not damage the coin’s surface. To use it, apply a drop of olive oil to the coin and rub it with a soft cloth. Rinse the coin thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft towel.
Cleaning Copper Coins with Vinegar
Vinegar is a good choice for cleaning copper coins. It is a mild acid that will help to remove tarnish. To use it, soak the coin in vinegar for a few minutes. Rinse the coin thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft towel.
Cleaning Nickel Coins with Acetone
Acetone is a good choice for cleaning nickel coins. It is a strong solvent that will help to remove dirt and grime. To use it, apply a drop of acetone to the coin and rub it with a soft cloth. Rinse the coin thoroughly with water and dry it with a soft towel.
Salt and Dish Soap for Abrasive Scrubbing
Salt and dish soap can be used as an abrasive scrubbing solution for removing stubborn dirt and grime from coins. To use this method, follow these steps:
1. Fill a bowl with warm water.
2. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water.
3. Add a few drops of dish soap to the water.
4. Stir the water until the salt and dish soap are dissolved.
5. Place the coins in the bowl and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.
6. Scrub the coins with a soft-bristled brush. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the coins. Rinse the coins thoroughly with water and dry them with a soft towel.
Safety Precautions
When handling dirty coins, exercising caution is crucial to ensure personal safety and prevent damage to the coins. The following precautions should be strictly adhered to:
1. Wear gloves
Handle coins with gloves to minimize skin contact with potentially harmful substances present on their surfaces.
2. Ventilate your workspace
Ensure adequate ventilation when cleaning coins, as certain solutions and chemicals may release fumes that can irritate the respiratory system.
3. Eye protection
Wear eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses, to prevent splashes or debris from reaching the eyes.
4. Use a designated area
Choose a specific area for coin cleaning to avoid spreading dirt and debris to other areas.
5. Follow instructions carefully
Thoroughly read and follow all instructions provided for cleaning solutions and equipment to ensure proper usage and avoid accidents.
6. Avoid harsh chemicals
Refrain from using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or hydrochloric acid, as they can damage the coins or pose health risks.
7. Handle coins gently
Handle coins with care to prevent scratching or damaging their surfaces.
8. Dispose of waste properly
Dispose of used cleaning solutions and materials responsibly to prevent environmental contamination.
9. Be aware of potential allergic reactions
Be aware of any potential allergic reactions to cleaning solutions or metals present on the coins. Test the solutions on an inconspicuous area of the coin first, and discontinue use if any reactions occur.
How to Wash Dirty Coins
Dirty coins can be unsightly and may not be accepted by vending machines or banks. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to clean dirty coins at home.
One method is to use a vinegar and baking soda bath. To do this, combine equal parts vinegar and baking soda in a bowl. Add the coins to the solution and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, use a soft brush to scrub the coins gently. Rinse the coins thoroughly with water and dry them with a soft cloth.
Another method is to use ketchup. To do this, apply a small amount of ketchup to the dirty coins. Let the ketchup sit on the coins for at least 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, use a soft brush to scrub the coins gently. Rinse the coins thoroughly with water and dry them with a soft cloth.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to rinse the coins thoroughly with water and dry them completely before storing them. This will help to prevent the coins from rusting.
People Also Ask About How To Wash Dirty Coins
How can I clean dirty coins without damaging them?
The best way to clean dirty coins without damaging them is to use a gentle cleaning method, such as the vinegar and baking soda bath or the ketchup method. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the coins.
Can I use bleach to clean dirty coins?
No, you should not use bleach to clean dirty coins.
Bleach is a harsh chemical that can damage the coins. It can also remove the patina from the coins, which can reduce their value.
