Using Gun Bluing For Artificial Color On Copper (Experiment)

This is in response to a previous post asking for a way to color copper rounds. In the past, I had discovered the use of gun bluing on screw heads to make them look older and not as shiny. So I thought I'd try doing this on an old penny because I have too much time on my hands and like to experiment.

I took a 1974 copper penny (a rare one) and polished one side to a shiny finish (just like you're not supposed to do). My demonstration and technique should NEVER be used on valuable coins or used to deceive a potential buyer. Below is the shiny penny.

I then took a little gun bluing solution on a Q-Tip and applied it to the penny.

The bluing can be rubbed off. Notice the strike marks?

And further rubbing can make a toned appearance.

And if you don't like what you see, you can try again. You can rub and reapply until you get the desired appearance or until your mom calls you to supper.