Cleaning bronze coins, especially common ones, involves a few simple steps to remove dirt and grime without damaging the coin. The safest method, according to coin expert Thomas E. Hudgeons Jr., involves using distilled water and olive oil.
Steps to Clean Bronze Coins:
- Rinse with Distilled Water: Start by rinsing the coin with distilled water. Distilled water is recommended because tap water often contains chlorine and other minerals that could potentially harm the coin's surface.
- Olive Oil Soak: Dip the coin in olive oil. According to Thomas E. Hudgeons Jr., olive oil works best for cleaning common copper or bronze coins. Let the coin soak in the olive oil. Soaking time can vary, but a few days to a week is generally sufficient to loosen dirt and grime.
- Gentle Cleaning: After soaking, gently rub the coin with a soft cloth or cotton swab to remove any remaining dirt. Avoid using abrasive materials or excessive force, as this could scratch the coin's surface.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the coin again with distilled water to remove any residual olive oil. Gently pat the coin dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Rinse | Rinse the coin with distilled water to remove loose dirt. |
| 2. Olive Oil Soak | Dip the coin in olive oil and let it soak for a few days to a week. |
| 3. Gentle Clean | Gently rub the coin with a soft cloth to remove remaining dirt. |
| 4. Rinse & Dry | Rinse with distilled water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. |
