Minor Hazing And Spotting On A Proof...

I have a 40% silver proof bicentennial quarter that developed hazing in the fields while in the OGP. I used acetone and a few other organic solvents but the hazing stayed This means that the hazing was a chemical reaction with the silver so it cannot be removed. I also have a couple proof Franklins with a little spotting and acetone removed it. BTW, the acetone had no effect on the mirror surface as long as the acetone is used in an area that has a moderate temperature. At room temp or a little warmer, the acetone evaporates very quickly and leaves no spotting. Always remember to take all safety precautions when dealing with acetone!

Your hazing may be of a chemical or organic nature. If it is chemical, it is there to stay. If it is organic, it could be removed. The biggest difficulty in dipping a proof in acetone is the handling of it- you could easily touch it wrong or bang it into anything in your work area. Dip at your own risk, knowing that the acetone itself will not harm the proof surface, but also that the hazing may not be removed or you might damage the proof just by too much handling.

Old saying is let sleeping dogs lie. In other words I suggest you don't try to remove the haze or you could do more damage than it is worth. Don't try chemicals you are not familiar with. If you do attempt to remove anything from a coin with any substances, always take safety precautions. As already noted if Acetone will not remove the haze, probably to late. However, note the following. If you do try Acetone, after purchasing it, place some on a clean glass dish and allow to evaporate. If no residue, then it is OK to use. If there is a residue, it is contaminated and should be discarded. Next only use glass utensils for the Acetone and your coins. If possible use a glass prong to pick up the coin and place it in the Acetone. Keep the Acetone at room temperature. Allow to soak for a few minutes. Remove, rinse with distilled water, place on a very clean cotton towel, blow dry with a hair dryer on cool setting, not hot.
If the haze is still there, you have spent money on Acetone, distilled water, electric bill for the hair dryer, your time, water for cleaning glass dishes, etc.
Was the coin worth that?