cleaning coins?

[RIZZARI318]

Hi: I am new to these boards. Can anyone tell me the best way to clean the encrusted stuff off of the coins? I have some coins that I've cleaned that look almost like cement is covering them. Is there a chemical process?
What about something like electrolysis or ultrasonic? Thanking you guys in advance for any help you can offer.

[adventus]

:) "Crusties" are tough! (no pun intended) :-) You can soak them in olive oil if you don't mind waiting around for 4-6 months. :( You would need a pretty good-sized ultrasound cleaner and you would run the risk of ruining the coin while trying to break up the encrustments. Risky and expensive! :confused: Electrolysis would seem to be the best choice even though some people freak out at the mention of it! :eek: It's relatively cheap to set-up. All you need is an AC/DC converter,(about $20 at Radio Shack), some alligator clips ($3), distilled water($1 a gallon), and some soda ash which is Sodium Carbonate. It's a ph adjuster for pool and spa water,($3 at your local pool/spa center). You can get directions on how to set it up on Google, and for about $30 you're ready to zap away!! Some folks like crusties because no one knows what's inside----like a RARE coin! :rolleyes: I find the chances of that happening are RARE! Usually coins that are crappy on the outside are crappy on the inside too. I've got some good beginner coins to sell. Just IM me if your interested. At any rate good luck w/ the crusties! :D

[oswrod]

Check it out: http://gometaldetecting.com/electrolysis_coins.htm
:) :p ;)