Coins

Coin Cleaning 101 - How To Clean Your Coins

A lot of new coin collectors (and those who don't know much about coins) think it is good to clean coins.

After all, isn't a nice, shiny coin better than a dark, dirty one? 

While that might seem to make sense to some people, it is actually true that you do NOT want to clean your coins.

Why? Because cleaning coins erodes away the coin's original color and tone -- which collectors and investors love. In fact, cleaning almost always results in ruining a coin.

So, now you may be asking yourself this question: "Is it ever okay to clean a coin?"

Yes, there are exceptions to the "don't clean coins" rule.

Mainly, if a coin is caked in dirt or debris, then it never hurts to wash off the coin with some clean, running water. Then, promptly pat the coin dry with a soft cloth.

If ever in doubt about cleaning a dirty coin, consult a coin dealer or another coin professional.