Understanding and Cleaning Tarnished Silver Coins

Published on November 4, 2023

Silver coins are a popular choice for investors and collectors due to their beauty and historical significance. However, over time, silver coins can develop tarnish and spotting, affecting their appearance and potentially their value. In this blog post, we'll explore why silver coins tarnish and how to properly clean them if you choose to do so.

Why Do Silver Coins Tarnish?

Tarnishing of silver coins is a natural process that occurs due to the interaction of silver with the environment. Here's why it happens:

1. Oxidation: Silver reacts with oxygen in the air, leading to the formation of silver oxide on the coin's surface. This oxide layer gives the coin a dull, tarnished appearance.

2. Sulfur Compounds: Exposure to sulfur compounds, which can be present in the atmosphere or in storage materials, can accelerate tarnishing. These compounds create silver sulfide on the coin's surface, resulting in dark spots and discoloration.

3. Handling: Oils and dirt from handling can transfer to the coin's surface, further promoting tarnish. It's essential to handle silver coins with clean, cotton gloves to minimize this effect.

How to Clean Tarnished Silver Coins

If you wish to restore the luster of your tarnished silver coins, it's important to follow proper cleaning methods to avoid damaging them. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You'll need mild dish soap, warm water, a soft-bristle brush (such as a toothbrush), and a clean, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials or chemicals that can harm the coin's surface.
2. Prepare a Soapy Solution: In a bowl, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water to create a gentle cleaning solution.
3. Gently Brush the Coin: Dip the soft-bristle brush into the soapy solution and carefully brush the coin's surface, removing dirt and tarnish. Be gentle and avoid using excessive pressure to prevent scratching.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the coin with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use distilled water if possible to prevent mineral deposits.
5. Dry Carefully: Pat the coin dry with a soft cloth or allow it to air dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause micro-scratches.
6. Store Properly: To prevent future tarnishing, store your cleaned silver coins in a dry, airtight container or coin capsules to protect them from environmental factors.

Important Note

While cleaning can help restore the shine of your silver coins, it's important to remember that collectors often prefer coins with natural patina, as cleaning may affect their numismatic value. Therefore, consider the impact on the coin's collectible worth before deciding to clean it.

For any valuable or rare coins, it's advisable to consult with a professional coin expert or numismatist before attempting any cleaning or restoration.

If you have silver coins that you would like to have professionally assessed, cleaned, or stored securely, please don't hesitate to contact Ploutos Gold and Silver LLC. Our team of experts is here to assist you in preserving the value and beauty of your precious metals.

For more information and assistance, please call us at 617-564-1630 or visit our website www.ploutosgs.com.