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 Replies: 14 / Views: 2,037 |
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Valued Member
Japan
294 Posts |
Short backstory: I recently bought one of those "20th Century US coins" frames online, not for the obviously "enhanced" silver pieces that were buffed into oblivion, but for the wheats and 1965 Jefferson nickel that were not only NOT defiled yet, but seemed to be in impeccable shape. (especially the Jefferson, which I'm a big fan of) But I didn't think that when I turned it over it would have toning like this!! I've read many helpful posts on coincommunity about the healing powers of acetone, and I want to try my hand at preserving it because the glue (found only on the building) is reacting with the metals, causing green spots. So my question is this: Is this the type of "natural toning" on a coin that wouldn't be affected by acetone if it were to be applied? Or should I expect all those beautiful colors (and/or perhaps the satin-like sheen) to disappear with a good dipping? **It's been caged within the cardboard/glass/wood frame for over 30 years, as far as I can tell. I very much look forward to the invaluable experience that I've seen on these boards, because I really want to save this coin. Thanks again!       |
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New Member
United States
5 Posts |
I wouldn't risk using acetone or anything else. Have you considered just putting that baby in a better coin holder to protect it?
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Valued Member
 Japan
294 Posts |
Glen Allen thanks for the comment. Yes, I have a hard plastic capsule ready for it, but also an acetone bath and some paper q-tips.
The reason I want to take action is because of the green specs forming inside the glue... It looks like a potentially rare piece considering the year, so I want to do whatever I can to help it without hurting it.
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Pillar of the Community
United States
6988 Posts |
First check and see if the glue is water soluble
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Moderator
 United States
56855 Posts |
Greasy Fingers idea is the one to go for first. Use distilled water and soak,not sure how long though. If that does nothing,100% pure acetone might help. The acetone should not remove toning,just the glue. Please post after pics. John1  |
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Valued Member
Japan
294 Posts |
Thanks for the advice everyone! Luckily I have a bunch of junk silver with the same glue that I can practice on first.
If it comes off by just touching it after soaking in water, I'll be a happy camper. But if it takes a little rubbing with the water, I'll probably resort to an acetone dip...
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Pillar of the Community
United States
6988 Posts |
Glue looks thick enough if you could peal up the edge with your fingernail, I think most will peal off
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Valued Member
Japan
294 Posts |
I have a question about using water compared to acetone though... If in fact acetone is proven to have no reaction to the metal itself, wouldn't it be safer to use on a coin than water when removing gunk on the surface because of the minimal pressure you would need to remove it?
If you use water first, you would be more inclined to use more force... So why wouldn't the first choice always be acetone?
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Moderator
United States
56855 Posts |
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Valued Member
Japan
294 Posts |
John, my friend, I barely know you but I love you. I decided to soak this bicentennial Ike in purified water which was also in the set before trying the acetone (despite my stubborn nature). It only soaked for two hours before I was able to gently get it with a toothpick!!   |
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Valued Member
Japan
294 Posts |
I'm going to try the nickel with water this weekend when I can put some time into it.
Although I'm a little concerned about places like the steps... Ikes are notorious for scratches but they're also easy to clean!
Do you have any recommendations on what to use when detailing the nickel? Would a fingernail or toothpick cause any scratching on the patina?
Also, would two hours be too long of a submersion maybe?
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Moderator
United States
187561 Posts |
Looking good!  |
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Moderator
United States
56855 Posts |
I have read that using a rose thorn works well but I have not tried it myself. Whatever you use, it should be as soft as possible and still be very careful,you don't want to damage the coin in anyway. I will wait for the after pics. John1 |
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Pillar of the Community
United States
6988 Posts |
If you still have the removed glue from the IKE, give it a soak in Acetone and time how long it take to dissolve or become workable
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Moderator
United States
56855 Posts |
That's a good idea. John1 |
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Replies: 14 / Views: 2,037 |
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Posted 11/25/2019 10:47 am
