Electrolysis Experiment On MD Finds

I've used boiling hydrogen peroxide to clean a crusty LMC which worked out pretty well. After seeing a video on electrolysis I decided to try this process. I'd appreciate any input or experience on using this process from readers.

I had 2 coins found while detecting to experiment with: a copper LMC and a clad quarter. The LMC was very crusty on the obverse (nearly illegible), the reverse not so much. The quarter just as bad but the clad about eaten away leaving a dull, dark finish.

Equipment: 19Vdc (1.3a) power source,low voltage test leads from Harbor Freight, aluminum scrap and brass plate for the anode. The power source is one I had on hand and don't care if it becomes damaged. I know most who do elctrolysis seem to use a 5 Vdc source ( I have several of these, too.).

Electrolyte solution: distilled water, 1 Tbs baking soda and 1 Tbs kosher salt. Heat water, disolve BS and salt.

Testing done in an open garage with good ventilation.

First test using the penny with aluminum anode: it took a minute or two to see some small action. When it did occur is kinda of pulsed on and off with only a little bubbling. After about 10 minutes the penny began to really stir up the solution for about a minute or two, then quieted down. The crud didn't flake off as I've seen in some videos. It seems to have just disolved. Cook time: 15 minutes.

Second test using the quarter and brass plate: Action began almost immediately. After a short time, the area around the anode was filling with blackish grud. The quarter really boiling good. Cook time: 5 or 6 minutes.

Finalize: Cleaned both coins with MS-70 (more black came off onto the Q-tip) and applied a light coat of Renaissannce wax polish.

Results: The LMC turned out okay especially after waxing. The quarter is now mostly a copper coin. Pics show a before and after.

Reader Input Questions:
1. Was using distilled water a good idea or should tap water be used?
2. What about my metal choice for the anode? I've read that steel gives a nastier gas than, say, iron.
3. What impact, if any, do you think using a 19 Vdc power source have on results?
4. What coin material should/should not be used with electrolysis?

Uncleaned



Electrolysis Cleaned



Uncleaned



Electrolysis Cleaned