YooperBSN
Senior Member
So I spent quite a bit of time looking back at the archives of this particular subforum in regards to cleaning/restoration of silver coins and methods of preservation. From what I have read/understand, the consensus seems to be that outside of electrolysis, a gentle rubbing with a simple baking soda and water paste is the best all around method to shine up old silver with minimal damage. Also the consensus seems to be use restraint/abstain from cleaning key dates, semi-key dates, and other rarities that could potentially command an above-melt numismatic price; but for commons, "knock yourself out". In regards to preservation, the threads where thin, but Renaissance Micro-Crystalline Wax Polish appears to be the most recommended. Does this seem to be a fair assessment?
If so, I have a couple of follow up questions:
1) As I have posted elsewhere, I found my first Merc (1935, no mint) which from my research is NOT a key or semi-key date, and an 1871 Obv 2 Canadian quarter. I am less afraid of cleaning my Merc, but I am wondering if my merc is too far gone to risk cleaning (see attached pics below).
2) Regarding the 1871 quarter, I was shocked to see how much it has tarnished in the 5 days that it has been in my possession (see attached pics below; first two are the day I dug it, second two are from today). I'm guessing that I handled it too much on the face and the oils from my fingers may have contributed to the rapid discoloring. As this is a rarer older coin, and considering that I have received a few $25-range offers (not selling right now) should I leave this coin alone just in case I ever need to part with it?
3) If I do clean one or either of these coins using a baking soda/water paste, what ingredient ratio should I use, how should I handle the cleaned coin to minimize further tarnishing/damage, and should it be treated with anything else prior to applying a thin layer of the Renaissance Wax?
4) What exactly is the purpose/benefit of the Renaissance Wax? Should I apply it to the 1871 even if I do not clean it or would this affect any potential value the coin could command if I ever need to part with it?
Thanks in advance!!
-Andrew
If so, I have a couple of follow up questions:
1) As I have posted elsewhere, I found my first Merc (1935, no mint) which from my research is NOT a key or semi-key date, and an 1871 Obv 2 Canadian quarter. I am less afraid of cleaning my Merc, but I am wondering if my merc is too far gone to risk cleaning (see attached pics below).
2) Regarding the 1871 quarter, I was shocked to see how much it has tarnished in the 5 days that it has been in my possession (see attached pics below; first two are the day I dug it, second two are from today). I'm guessing that I handled it too much on the face and the oils from my fingers may have contributed to the rapid discoloring. As this is a rarer older coin, and considering that I have received a few $25-range offers (not selling right now) should I leave this coin alone just in case I ever need to part with it?
3) If I do clean one or either of these coins using a baking soda/water paste, what ingredient ratio should I use, how should I handle the cleaned coin to minimize further tarnishing/damage, and should it be treated with anything else prior to applying a thin layer of the Renaissance Wax?
4) What exactly is the purpose/benefit of the Renaissance Wax? Should I apply it to the 1871 even if I do not clean it or would this affect any potential value the coin could command if I ever need to part with it?
Thanks in advance!!
-Andrew