How to Clean Zinc Coins

Regular Cleaning

• 1

  Mix warm water and a mild dish detergent in a bowl or sink until it forms suds. Drop the coins into this mixture and allow them to soak for 30 minutes; if your coins are heavily soiled, you may want them to soak for an hour.

• 2

  Remove the coins and dry them with a clean paper towel or cloth; you may notice some of the dirt and grime come off onto the towel. Remove as much dirt as you can with the towel.

• 3

  Scrub the coins with a stiff brush to remove remaining dirt and grime. Use a toothbrush or toothpick to get into grooves or crevices on the coin.

• 4

  Sprinkle common table salt onto the coin and rub the salt into the coin with a cloth. The salt will help to scrub away dirt and grime.

• 5

  Rinse the coins thoroughly in warm water to remove residual salt and soap. Dry them with a clean towel.

Oxidation

• 6

  Wear protective gloves when working with acid. Slowly pour one part sulfuric acid into 20 parts water to make a dilution of the acid.

• 7

  Add the coins to the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes; the soaking time may vary depending on the level of oxidation. Turn the coins every two to three minutes with a wooden spoon.

• 8

  Mix one part sodium hydroxide with 20 parts water; the sodium hydroxide will help to neutralize the acid. When the coins are finished in the acid, use the wooden spoon to transfer them to the hydroxide and allow them to soak for five minutes.

• 9

  Remove the coins from the hydroxide and rinse them thoroughly in warm water. Scrub away any remaining oxidation with a scrub brush.

• 10

  Dry the coins thoroughly before storing.