I've purchased this heavily toned 1834 Capped Bust Dime. It has strong details, but is heavily toned. (The photos are the seller's, so I'm sorry about the fuzzy reverse shot.) I'm OK with the slight reverse edge bump because I got the coin for what I think is a very reasonable price.
I know cleaning is a "no no" but I am wondering if, with a coin like this, a bath in acetone might help. Would that be something to try or should I just leave the coin as is?
Would a baking soda and aluminum foil undo the oxidation? Just curious. I'm not sure I would want to try it on a coin such at this, but I have heard of people doing that for silver bars.
Acetone rinses are not generally considered cleaning but it's doubtful acetone would do a thing to that coin. Don't try cleaning with baking soda or Pepsi or any other method if you really want to preserve the coin. Silver dip? Well a diluted dip might be in order if you have experience with E-z-est and water but if not then don't try it.
I am worried about this coin. Believe me, I love a nicely toned coin, but dark toning like this, and not the best quality of photos could mean some Env Damage. Do you have the coin in hand and have you examine the surfaces thoroughly?
The rim hit is minimal and wouldn't warrant a details grade, but I would leave the coin as it is. Acetone will do no good and harsher cleaners will ruin the coin (obviously). If this was a modern coin or perhaps a morgan or Peace dollar, Silver Dip would be an option, but a coin this old (and certainly not high MS) will not look natural if dipped. I've had coins that were evenly toned across dipped and come out pure white except for a dark streak or spots that simply will not budge, leaving the coin uglier than it first was.
I was going to say a quick silver dip until I saw your photos. DONOT do anything to this coin. or you will ruin it. sorry for the bad news. using acetone wouldn't do anything to your coin. Again DONOT use anything to lighten it up !
In my opinion acetone wont do much of anything but it wouldn't hurt to try. I would recommend leaving it as is and enjoy the details it shows. I enjoy coins in this condition because I can handle them in my hand without worry about diminishing the quality.
Extreme oxidation/patination is environmental damage, a coin will not look like that if it has been stored under normal atmospheric conditions during its lifetime.
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Posted 08/11/2015 11:58 pm
