Introduction
Have you ever come across dirty, rusty, or dull-looking pennies in your change stash? Cleaning pennies can offer a rewarding experience and revive their shiny appearance. Since pennies are made of copper, which is prone to oxidation and tarnishing over time, cleaning them can enhance their appeal and protect their value. This article delves into the various methods of cleaning pennies, the chemistry behind it, dos and don’ts, history and proper care, and DIY penny-cleaning solutions.
10 easy steps for cleaning pennies: What to do and what to avoid
The most commonly used household items for cleaning pennies include vinegar, lemon juice, ketchup, baking soda, and salt. To restore the shine on your pennies, follow these 10 easy steps:
- Fill a small jar or bowl with a mild cleaning agent such as vinegar or lemon juice.
- Gently place the pennies into the solution and leave them to soak for a few minutes.
- Remove the pennies from the solution and rinse them under running water.
- Pat the pennies dry with a soft towel or cloth.
- If the pennies are still dirty, repeat the soaking process until they are clean.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents like steel wool, baking powder, or abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch, damage, or leave residues on the penny’s surface.
- Do not use acids or harsh chemicals such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia, as they can corrode the penny’s surface and cause irreversible damage.
- Do not polish the penny with cloth or abrasive materials, as this can result in scratches, marks, and reduced value.
- Do not attempt to clean rare or valuable pennies without consulting an expert, as cleaning may reduce their worth.
- Store your newly cleaned pennies carefully in a clean, dry, and secure place to maintain their condition.
The chemistry behind cleaning pennies: A guide to scientific cleaning
Chemically, cleaning pennies involve a process called oxidation reduction (redox) reaction. This process works by removing the copper oxide layer that forms naturally on the penny’s surface, exposing the shiny copper underneath. The different household cleaning agents used in cleaning pennies work in different ways by breaking down or dissolving the copper oxide layer. For instance, vinegar contains acetic acid, which reacts with copper oxide to form copper acetate, a lighter-colored compound that dissolves, leaving a shiny copper surface. Similarly, lemon juice contains citric acid, which dissolves copper oxide, while baking soda, being a mild abrasive, gently removes the tarnish. The redox reaction can also be aided by salt, which acts as a catalyst to accelerate the reaction rate.
The dos and don’ts of cleaning pennies: Tips from experts
According to coin cleaning experts, the best way to clean pennies safely without damaging them is by using mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Do not use dips, abrasive cleaners or polishes, rubbing alcohol, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide, as they can damage the penny’s surface.
- Do not scrub, rub or polish the penny vigorously, as this can scratch and deform the coin’s surface.
- Do not use tap water, as it can contain chlorine or hard minerals that cause water spots and stains on the penny’s surface.
- Do use distilled or deionized water, as it is free from impurities and does not cause damage to the coin’s surface.
- Do handle the penny with clean hands or gloves to avoid oil, dirt, or fingerprints on the coin’s surface.
- Do store the cleaned penny in a clean, dry, and secure place, preferably in a holder or album to protect its condition and value.
The history of pennies and how to properly care for them
Pennies have a long and rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, where they were used for trade and currency exchange. In the United States, pennies were first minted in 1793 and have undergone numerous design and composition changes over time. Today, pennies are made of copper-coated zinc and have a lifespan of approximately 25 years. To properly care for old pennies, it is essential to keep them dry, clean, and free from environmental pollutants. Here are a few tips:
- Store older pennies in a dry and sealed environment to prevent oxidation and corrosion.
- Handle older pennies with gloves or a clean cloth to prevent oil and dirt from your hands to stain them.
- Do not clean older pennies with harsh chemicals or abrasives, as this can significantly reduce their value and authenticity.
- Do not carry older pennies in pockets or purses, as friction can cause wear and tear on the coin’s surface.
DIY penny-cleaning solutions: Cheap and easy ways to restore your penny collection
If you are looking for more affordable and creative ways to clean your pennies, here are some DIY solutions from penny enthusiasts and collectors:
- Hand sanitizer: Apply sanitizer to the penny’s surface, leave it for a few seconds, and rub it off with a soft cloth.
- Tartar sauce: Mix a small amount of tartar sauce with hot water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the penny, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse off with water.
- Coca-cola: Pour Coca-cola into a bowl, place the penny inside, let it soak for a few minutes, rinse, and dry.
- Barbecue charcoal: Light up some charcoal, place the penny in a bowl with the hot coal on top, leave for a few minutes, and then rinse off with water.
- Olive oil: Soak the penny in olive oil for a few hours, remove, and wipe off any excess oil.
Conclusion
As you clean your pennies, remember to follow the dos and don’ts guidelines and use mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents to protect your coins’ value and authenticity. Additionally, handle your coins with care, store them safely, and seek expert advice before cleaning rare or valuable pennies. By maintaining a consistent cleaning regimen, you can enhance the beauty of your penny collection and preserve its historical significance.
