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How to Clean Old Collectible Coins

Collecting coins is a hobby enjoyed by thousands, perhaps millions, of people. A serious collector realizes that maintenance is a huge component of coin collecting. There are several methods of cleaning a coin. Which method is best for your collection is a matter of personal choice. However, one of the most basic methods of cleaning an old collectible coin is to soak and brush it.

Things You'll Need

Cleaning solution
Plastic or glass container
2 cloth rags
Soft-bristle toothbrush
Toothpick
Distilled water
Acid-free envelope

Instructions

- 1
  Run hot water over the coin. Hold the coin under a stream of hot water for two minutes. Turn the coin over and do the same for the opposite side.
- 2
  Soak the coin in a cleaning solution for as long as you like. Soaking times may vary from 12 hours to two weeks. Recommended cleaning solutions include lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda and water, isopropyl alcohol, olive oil or just dish detergent and water.
- 3
  Remove the coin from the cleaning solution and rinse it with hot water. Place the coin on a soft piece of cloth. Scrub the visible side of the coin using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Flip the coin over and brush the opposite side as well. Scrape leftover dirt from the grooves of the coin using a toothpick.
- 4
  Dip the coin into a container filled with distilled water. Using distilled water will allow your coin to air dry without forming water spots. Dislodge any leftover dirt on the coin by shaking it while it is in the water.
- 5
  Place the coin on a clean, soft piece of cloth. Allow the coin to air dry. Store the coin in an acid-free envelope.

Coin Collecting