1908 PENNY

[zimgrind]

I have a 1908 PENNY that is in a not so great condition. How best to clean this without devaluing the coin? an oxydation of some sort has blackened the coin.

[Rob]

I'm assuming the coin is quite worn? If it is worn, then unless it is the rare 1* obverse you will not devalue it by cleaning. Just because it is a dark colour doesn't mean it is a good idea to clean it. Coins are valued on the degree of wear, the less there is, the higher the value for that variety. Little or no wear and a dark colour just means you have a toned coin which is quite acceptable. What you cannot do is restore lustre to a toned coin. The best you will get is a cleaned and/or polished surface which will devalue it as collectors would not in general be interested.

[Coinery]

Though, just for zimgrind's clarification, you can however have lustre that's overtoned, which presents slightly more 'luminous' than the monotones of a tarnished alloy or base metal.

[Coinery]

What about pictures?

[hazelman]

Zimgrind - there is an expert amongst us who has taught me how to decontaminate my coins- this will not make it glow , change colour - or any other weird or wonderful things but what it will do is remove and surface grease etc without damaging your coins - just use acetone (not nail varnish remover ) with a cuetip and gently dab it on your coin. With regards your toned 1908 penny there are many collectors who prefer toned coins. the question is what grade is it - many here can help you on that if you paste a pic or two.

Edited April 7, 2015 by hazelman

[Peter]

There is a product called verdicare which can give good results.

[hazelman]

Mr R Sleeker - I dont need to buy anything but acetone

[Coinery]

Playing Peter at his own game!