Should old coins be cleaned

Answer 1

Yes, cleaning a silver coin will reduce its value. Coins that are cleaned can be easily detected. The coin will not be worthless, but may fetch a lower price. It is better to leave it tarnished.

Answer 2

Old coins that have been in circulation should not be cleaned. Cleaning can damage them and reduce their value. Coins that have been soild unnaturally, say in a fire, or sunk in a wreck, may be cleaned, but should only be cleaned by a professional.

Answer 3

Yes. Cleaning coins often actually damages the surface and reduces the collector value. The only time a coin should be cleaned at all is if you find it on the ground and it has dirt or other impurities and particulates on it, and even then all you should do is give it a light rinse.

Answer 4

Yes, cleaning the coin also damages its surface, reducing the value.