A Beginner’s Guide to Cleaning and Preserving Ancient Coins > 게시판

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Handling ancient coins demands gentle attention, reverence for the past, and meticulous technique

Each coin is a silent witness to history, bearing the imprint of dynasties, merchants, and common people who lived long ago

The first and most important rule is never to clean an ancient coin with harsh chemicals, abrasive tools, or even regular household cleaners

Improper cleaning may scar the metal, dissolve ancient surface layers, and erase evidence that scholars depend on to date and interpret the coin

Always inspect the coin carefully under controlled illumination, ideally with a 10x or higher magnifying lens

Check carefully for verdigris, encrustations, or unnatural shine that might indicate prior improper treatment

If the coin is heavily encrusted with soil or mineral deposits, do not attempt to scrub it

Instead, soak it gently in distilled water for a few days

Distilled water is preferred because it lacks minerals and impurities that could react with the metal

Change the water daily and let the dirt loosen naturally

A few experts employ a clean, ultra-soft bristle brush—such as a new, unused cosmetic brush—to dislodge surface grit, provided the coin is intact

These common kitchen substances can chemically etch the coin’s surface and strip away original toning

They risk dissolving fine details, corroding the metal, and permanently altering the coin’s appearance

Ultrasonic baths, while effective for modern metals, can fracture brittle ancient alloys and blast away delicate surfaces

If the coin has green or blue corrosion, known as patina, this is often a sign of age and should be left alone

Preserving the patina often means preserving the coin’s long-term stability

After any gentle cleaning, dry the coin thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth

Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity

Opt for archival-quality Mylar sleeves, inert plastic flips, or buffered cardboard mounts

PVC containers emit plasticizers that react with copper and silver, アンティークコイン causing green residue and pitting

For long-term preservation, consider placing the coin in a sealed container with silica gel packets to absorb moisture

Professional conservators have the expertise and tools to evaluate and stabilize fragile ancient coinage safely

They have the training and tools to assess and preserve ancient coins safely

A coin’s value lies in its authenticity, not in artificial shine or polish

The most valuable ancient coins are those that have survived with their original surfaces intact

By respecting its origins, you become a guardian of its legacy, ensuring future generations can learn from it