Letter 15867

Cleaning Pennies [Canada] 

++

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

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 gloves, use in ventilated area).

Kevin McHugh
- Orland Park, IL

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

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 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

Post a question or inquiry on a different subject

 

Answer or follow-up on this subject

 

This letter is within a monitored forum. If you spot broken links or obsolete info, please advise!