Cleaning Proof Coins

[Guest Lisa_I'm_a_Guest]

One of my proof (double sovereign) coins has little marks on its back (i can see these through the capsule), can one tell me if i wiped it a little with a bit of lint-free cloth would the marks go away, or will the coin be more damaged than before?

Thanks for your time, Lisa

[Chris Perkins]

It would probably end up worse. If the marks are toning marks (of the non gold contained within the gold) then it probably won't come off. If the mark is something foreign on the coin, try soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Handle it just by the rim and give it a gentle soapy rub with the tooth brush.

When done, lay it on a very soft towel, and dab it once gently, then let it dry naturally (keeping an eye that no water marks develop)

That might work, but don't sue me if it doesn't! Proofs are very sensitive to any form of handling.