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How to Clean War Nickels

One popular type of coin among collectors is the war nickel. Also known as the wartime nickel, it made its debut during the 1940s. Due to the high demand for certain metals during World War II, the United States Mint switched to making war nickels out of copper, silver and manganese. Due to their age, they are often dirty and darkened. Using a simple mixture of vinegar and salt, you can easily clean grime and discoloration from an old war nickel.

Things You'll Need

White vinegar
Table salt
Pencil with eraser
Paper towel
Small bowl
Set of kitchen measuring spoons
Water

Instructions

- 1
  Place your war nickel into the bowl.
- 2
  Pour one tablespoon of vinegar and one teaspoon of salt into the bowl
- 3
  Stir the mixture briefly with the eraser-tipped end of the pencil and let the coin soak for 10 to 20 seconds.
- 4
  Place the coin on a paper towel.
- 5
  Scrub the surface of the coin with the pencil eraser. This will remove any surface grime and discoloration.
- 6
  Dip the coin into the salt and white vinegar mixture once again and then place on the paper towel.
- 7
  Repeat Step Five on the opposite side of the coin.
- 8
  Rinse the coin in water and dry with a paper towel.

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