How do you clean burnt coins?

Cleaning burnt coins requires careful handling to avoid damaging their historical value. Here are steps to clean burnt coins:

Materials:

- Soft cloth

- Mild dishwashing liquid

- Toothbrush (with soft bristles)

- Baking soda (optional)

- Olive oil (optional)

- Distilled water

Instructions:

1. Initial Examination:

- Examine the coin closely under good lighting to assess its condition. Burnt coins may have different types of damage, so the cleaning method may vary.

2. Initial Cleaning:

- Gently rub the coin with a soft cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris.

3. Mild Detergent Wash:

- Make a solution by mixing a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid with distilled water.

- Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently rub the coin, taking care not to press too hard.

- Rinse the coin thoroughly with distilled water.

4. Baking Soda Paste (Optional):

- If there are stubborn burnt marks, you can create a paste by mixing a small amount of baking soda with water.

- Gently apply the paste to the coin with a soft cloth and let it sit for a few minutes.

- Rinse the coin thoroughly with distilled water.

5. Toothbrush Cleaning:

- For some burnt coins, you may need to use a toothbrush with soft bristles.

- Dip the brush in the dishwashing liquid solution and gently brush the coin's surface, paying close attention to burnt areas.

- Rinse the coin thoroughly with distilled water.

6. Olive Oil (Optional):

- For some coins that have a coppery reddish color, you can apply a small amount of olive oil using a soft cloth.

- This can help restore some of the coin's original luster, but it should be used sparingly.

- Make sure to wipe away any excess oil afterward.

7. Drying:

- Allow the coin to air dry completely before handling it further.

- Avoid rubbing or wiping the coin with a cloth while it is still wet.

8. Store Properly:

- Once the coin is dry, store it in a coin collection album, individual coin capsule, or a protective container to prevent further damage.

Remember, coins that are exceptionally burnt or have significant historical value should be handled by a professional numismatist or coin conservator to avoid causing any damage.