I have a small collection of wheat back pennies. What's the best way to clean them up and take care of them?

Question

I have a small collection of wheat back pennies. What's the best way to clean them up and take care of them?

Answer 1

No real coin collector would tell you to clean your coins. the rule is never clean coins period. The oils and acids in your shin (hand) will turn cents dark and may leave finger prints. A dealer who does that is a jerk and is in the wrong business. go to www.brooklyngallery.com they are a large dealer in coin supplies and check out what is available that may fit your needs. Leave the coin cleaning supplies there alone. They should be used only by experts in conservation of coins and of course dishonest dealers. Easiest way to lose money on coins is to clean them.

Answer 2

exchange them at the bank

Answer 3

The best thing to do is not to do anything to them.  Sometimes when you clean and/or polish them up you will reduce their value.  When you handle them wear cotton gloves because the oil in your hand will cause discoloring.  Put them in books or binders for display.

Answer 4

If you want to clean them up but maintain their value as a collectible, just rub them between your fingers.   It will eventually polish them.  After they get shiny,  rub them in a soft cloth to remove the oils from your fingers, or else they will only tarnish again.  Then keep them in a coin book or wrap them so they do get exposed to air.  Oxygen will make them tarnish.

If you don't care about their value and just want them shiny then use NOXON® 7 Metal Polish.  It is an abrasive and will scratch them a tiny bit as it polishes and will lower the coins value.

Answer 5

put them in some soda pop. sounds funny, but it will make them nice and shiny!!!