Cleaning Pennies

Letter 15867

Cleaning Pennies

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We have lots of pennies but they are really dirty. Do u know any solution from around the house that could help me clean them?

Ashley [minor's last name deleted by editor]
- Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

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Ashley:

If you are collecting coins, you should not use any chemicals at all - they do a good job, but an experienced collector can recognize an unnatural finish - the coins will be worth more if you leave them alone.

If you want them clean for some other reason, any copper cleaner should do the job - found in hardware stores, WalMarts, etc (wear rubber protective gloves [link is to product info at Amazon], use in ventilated area).

Kevin McHugh
- Orland Park, Illinois

April 18, 2008

Hey I am doing a science project on what is the best way to clean pennies.. I tried vinegar but that didn't work. What should I use now? Do you think this is a good experiment? Or is it quite boring?

Teryne B [minor's last name deleted by editor]
student - Nashville

April , 2008

Hi, Teryne. Vinegar plus salt will work instantly. So will lemon juice & salt, ketchup, taco sauce, etc.

But the purpose of your science project is not to learn how to clean pennies, it is to learn how to conduct an experiment properly. Our FAQ on Cleaning Pennies should be exactly what you need. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
finishing.com
Brick, New Jersey

April 14, 2009

Hi,

I am doing a Science Project for my 5th grade class on "Cleaning Pennies".

My questions are why does is take so many days to get the tarnish off of the pennies? If I mix different acids or whiteners together for example toothpaste, taco sauce and salt will that do the trick of cleaning them quicker? Is it safe to use all the ingredients together?

Thank you for your help.

Jake W [minor's last name deleted by editor]
Student - Ludlow, Massachusetts

April 16, 2009

Hi, Jake. You imply that it took many days for taco sauce to get the tarnish off of pennies. Just how much time did it take?

I don't foresee your head exploding if you brush your teeth after having tacos for dinner. But I guess you should get your little brother to try it before you brush your own. Assuming he doesn't explode or pass out, you can safely mix them.

But think about what conclusion you will have if the mix works better than the individual ingredients, and what you will have learned that is of any value.

Regards,

Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Brick, New Jersey

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