Since some forum members seem to enjoy watching these 'dirt coins' get a new lease on life, I figured starting an ever updating thread of my restoration projects would be prudent.
The projects below have already been posted to the CCF, I've included here for completeness. New posts may include some added information on soak times, solution ratios, and other specific details of the project.
Quote: Easy to confirm it is the same coin at each step
Exactly! Even though the changes per stage are crucial to see (as some stages may have little to no impact) the fact that you can pick out markers, and follow them, leaves little doubt that it is the same coin throughout.
This LWC came out of the same ground as the prior 1920-S. It really shows how certain ground types are extremely kind to copper (low moisture and a neutral pH).
Could move 10 yards away and the story would likely change.
Unfortunately one thing that cannot be overcome by chems is the staining that almost always occurs on dirt Nickels. I searched high & low for the finest scratch brush available and finally forked over $50 on one made for brass musical instruments. It does bring back some of the original coloration.
Nothing spectacular with this common date Washington quarter but, I think it is important to know when to stop the restorative work. I purposefully left some of dirt and grime on this coin and I see no reason why it would not straight grade if submitted.
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