How Do I Clean Old Silver Dollars?

I have many old silver dollars that were in an old book and have severe tarnish and discoloration. So bad, most of the features are almost unreadable. I know not to use a harsh, gritty abrasive type of cleaner, but what would be an acceptable cleaner to use?

Email Report

Answer Question

More in Cleaning & Laundry

Harry3939

asked 2 years ago

2 Answers - Sort by: Date | Rating

Silver coins are a different matter so it is inadvisable to clean any silver coins, especially old ones which are dirty. Many collectors by the way prefer the older coins that way as it means a certain authenticity to the coins. Even then if you want to clean, use olive oil and rub it with a cloth/cotton gently.

Leave a comment Report

1 0

Aicha

answered 2 years ago

I agree with Aicha. Collectors like the old patina on the coins. It's just like antique furniture. If you refinish it, you cut the value by at least half. Sometimes more.

Report

Tamarind

commented 2 years ago

I agree with Aicha. Collectors like the old patina on the coins. It's just like antique furniture. If you refinish it, you cut the value by at least half. Sometimes more.

Report

Tamarind

commented 2 years ago

Place aluminum foil in a pan shiny side up. Place silver dollars on top of foil. Add ½ cup baking SODA anf 2-4 cups boiling water. The hot water activates the baking soda, a chemical reaction occurs between the silver, foil and soda, and Voilã! Clean coins. Works on anything silver, even silver plate.