How to Clean Pennies

We've all found old pennies that have lost their shine, turning dark and dirty over time. While you might want to use the first cleaner you find, not all cleaning methods are safe for these copper coins. Using the wrong cleaning method can actually harm your pennies or make them worth less money.

According to the American Numismatic Association, "Cleaning coins can significantly reduce their value and should only be done with extreme caution. Most collectors prefer coins in their natural state, even if tarnished."

Let's look at the right ways to clean those dull pennies and make them sparkle again, whether they're special family coins or just some change from your pocket that needs a good cleaning.

Start With Tarnished Copper

Before you start cleaning those dark, tarnished pennies, it's crucial to check whether they're worth more in their current state.

Let's consult "The Official Red Book" guide first to guarantee we're not diminishing any collector's value.

Once we've confirmed it's safe to clean pennies, we'll start with a good soak in a mixture of vinegar and salt to break down that oxidation.

Let's explore the key things you'll want to contemplate when cleaning your pennies – from essential steps to important warnings.

We've found that successful penny cleaning requires both knowing what to do and what to avoid, such as using harsh chemicals that might damage your coins.

Before we get into the specific methods and safety tips, it's important to remember that some pennies might be worth more in their original condition, so always check a coin's value before cleaning it.

Things to Do When Cleaning Pennies

Before attempting to clean any pennies, it's essential to understand that proper cleaning techniques vary depending on the coin's age and composition.

While pre-1982 pennies are made primarily of copper and can withstand more vigorous cleaning methods, post-1982 pennies contain zinc and require gentler treatment.

The cleaning approach you choose should align with both the penny's composition and its potential numismatic value to avoid damaging or devaluing the coins.

1. Check coin value – Research your pennies' worth using coin guides before cleaning to avoid diminishing valuable specimens.
2. Sort by date – Separate pre-1982 copper pennies from post-1982 zinc-based ones to determine appropriate cleaning method.
3. Prepare cleaning solution – Mix vinegar and salt for copper pennies, or gather gentle alternatives like ketchup or cola.
4. Test clean – Try the chosen cleaning method on a common penny first to guarantee desired results.
5. Soak appropriately – Immerse copper pennies for 5-10 minutes; use shorter soaking times for zinc pennies.
6. Gentle scrubbing – Use soft toothbrush or microfiber cloth to remove buildup without scratching.
7. Thorough rinsing – Wash away all cleaning solutions with clean water to prevent residue.
8. Proper drying – Pat coins dry with soft cloth rather than air drying to prevent water spots.
9. Optional polishing – Apply baking soda paste if additional shine is desired.
10. Safe storage – Place cleaned pennies in protective holders or containers to maintain their appearance.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning Pennies

When cleaning pennies, it's essential to understand that improper cleaning methods can greatly damage or devalue your coins. The most important consideration before attempting any cleaning is to verify whether the penny holds numismatic value, as cleaning valuable coins can reduce their worth by up to 90% and permanently alter their original condition.

• Metal scrubbing pads or steel wool – These abrasive materials will create micro-scratches on the penny's surface.
• Commercial coin cleaning solutions – Often contain harsh chemicals that can strip the coin's natural patina.
• Extended vinegar soaks – Can corrode zinc-based pennies and cause irreversible deterioration.
• Nail polish remover – Contains harmful additives that damage the coin's finish.
• Heavy scrubbing or rubbing – Creates unwanted wear and removes the coin's original luster.
• Boiling water – Extreme temperatures can cause structural damage to the metal.
• Bleach or ammonia – Highly corrosive chemicals that react badly with copper.
• Jewelry cleaners – Too aggressive for coins and can cause discoloration.
• Metal polishes – Remove both tarnish and the coin's protective outer layer.
• Outdoor exposure – Sun and elements can cause uneven toning and environmental damage.

Steps

Cleaning pennies requires different approaches based on their composition and age, with pre-1982 copper pennies requiring different treatment than post-1982 zinc-based ones.

The key to successful penny cleaning lies in using the appropriate method for each type while being gentle enough to preserve the coin's integrity and potential value.

Step 1: Check the date on your penny to determine if it's copper (pre-1982) or zinc-based (post-1982).

Step 2: For copper pennies, mix 1/4 cup white vinegar with 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.

Step 3: Soak copper pennies in the solution for 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush to remove residual dirt.

Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step 6: For additional shine, make a paste with baking soda and water.

Step 7: Apply the paste using a microfiber cloth in circular motions.

Step 8: Rinse again and dry completely with a soft cloth.

Step 9: For zinc pennies, use a pencil eraser to remove oxidation.

Step 10: Alternatively, use a highly diluted vinegar solution for zinc pennies, avoiding prolonged exposure.

Final Thoughts

Although penny cleaning might seem straightforward, it's essential to approach the task with care and knowledge to preserve your coins' value.

Before using the full power of any cleaning method, we recommend getting valuable pieces appraised first.

When we clean coins properly, we're not just making them shine – we're protecting their worth for years to come.

Cleaning pennies can be a rewarding process when done correctly, but it's essential to approach it with care and consideration.

Before starting any cleaning procedure, always check the coin's potential value to avoid diminishing worth through unnecessary cleaning. For everyday pennies, using appropriate methods based on their composition – vinegar and salt for pre-1982 copper pennies, and gentler approaches for post-1982 zinc-based coins – will yield the best results.

Remember that less is often more when it comes to coin cleaning. Start with the mildest cleaning method possible and only progress to stronger solutions if absolutely necessary. The goal should be to preserve the coin's integrity while removing unwanted buildup or tarnish.

Whether you're cleaning pennies for a collection, craft project, or simply to restore their shine, take the time to do it right.

Get started with a small batch of common pennies to practice your technique, and you'll soon master the art of proper penny cleaning while protecting these pieces of American currency for years to come.