Should You Clean Your Coins? The Truth Every Collector Should Know
If you’ve ever found an old coin and thought, “Maybe I should shine this up a bit,” — stop right there.
It’s one of the most common mistakes new collectors (and even sellers) make. Cleaning coins might seem like a harmless way to make them look better, but in most cases, it actually does more harm than good.
Whether you’ve just inherited a collection or stumbled upon some old change, here’s what you need to know before you grab the polish.
Why You Shouldn’t Clean Your Coins
Cleaning a coin almost always lowers its value — sometimes by 50% or more. That’s because collectors and professional buyers (like us here at Houston TX Coins) value coins for their original surfaces, called patina or toning.
When you clean or polish a coin, you’re removing that natural finish — and with it, much of the coin’s appeal and authenticity.
Here’s what happens when coins are cleaned:
Micro-scratches: Even gentle rubbing with a cloth can leave tiny scratches that dull the surface.
Loss of detail: Chemicals and abrasives remove fine details that collectors look for.
Artificial shine: Cleaned coins look unnaturally bright — experienced buyers can spot them immediately.
Reduced grading potential: Certified grading companies (like PCGS or NGC) label harshly cleaned coins as “Details” coins, meaning they have damage and won’t grade normally.
In short, a cleaned coin might look shiny, but it’s worth less to serious collectors.
When It Might Be Okay to Clean a Coin
There are a few rare exceptions — but only for coins that have no collectible or numismatic value, such as:
Modern pocket change or circulated coins used for craft or display purposes.
Dirty coins you plan to spend or give to kids for fun.
If you simply want to remove loose dirt or debris without damaging the surface, you can:
Soak the coin in distilled water (never tap water) for a few hours.
Pat it dry gently with a soft cloth — don’t rub.
But for anything that might be valuable — old coins, silver coins, or rare types — never attempt to clean them yourself.
What to Do Instead
If your coins look dirty or tarnished, the best thing to do is:
Leave them as-is.
Have them professionally appraised.
Let the buyer or grader determine whether conservation is appropriate.
Professional conservation is different from cleaning. Certified experts use safe, controlled techniques to stabilize coins without removing original surfaces.
At Houston TX Coins, we always advise our clients not to clean their coins before appraisal. We can evaluate the condition, explain what toning means for its value, and help you decide the best next step.
Real Example: A “Shiny” Coin Worth Half
A customer once brought in a 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent — a rare and valuable penny. Unfortunately, they had “polished” it with a jewelry cloth to make it look new. What could have been a $1,000 coin dropped to around $400 because of the cleaning marks.
That’s how big a difference original surfaces make.
Tips for Handling Coins Safely
Even without cleaning, proper handling helps protect your coins:
Hold coins by the edges, not the faces.
Store them in acid-free holders or flips.
Keep them in a cool, dry place away from humidity and direct sunlight.
Avoid PVC plastic sleeves — they can cause long-term damage.
Final Thoughts
So, should you clean your coins?
✅ No — not if they have collectible or bullion value.
Cleaning removes history, originality, and value. If your coins look dark or tarnished, that’s a good sign — it means they’ve aged naturally.
Before doing anything, bring your coins to a professional coin dealer for a free appraisal. We’ll tell you exactly what you have, whether it’s rare, and how to preserve it properly.
Houston TX Coin Dealer
📍 Serving the Greater Houston Area
💰 Free Coin Appraisals | Honest Offers | Professional Advice
Have a coin collection you’re not sure what to do with?
Call or visit us today for a free evaluation — no cleaning required.
