Counting My Gold and Platinum Coins: Reflections and Tips for Collectors
June 27, 2025My Top Ten Numismatic Goals for 2025
June 27, 2025
Over my ten years collecting coins, folks often ask me about restoring pieces like the Silver War Nickel. It’s a tricky area, so I’ll share what I’ve picked up through trial and error in the hobby.
Assessing Restoration Feasibility
Whether you can salvage a silver coin really depends on the damage. Light surface issues might respond to careful handling, but once corrosion sets in—like those stubborn black spots on war nickels—what’s done is usually done. Even professionals can only do so much for rare pieces. Most damaged coins stay that way forever, keeping them honest but less attractive to collectors.
Safe Conservation Techniques I’ve Tried
When I spot a problem coin, my rule is simple: start gentle. Here’s what works for me:
- First, a distilled water soak for a few hours—surprisingly effective for surface dirt
- For tougher gunk, pure acetone (the real stuff, not drugstore remover) on a cotton swab—just dab lightly and test first
- Steer clear of commercial dips—they’ll strip natural toning and leave that artificial look we all dislike
Push too far and you’re not conserving anymore—you’re cleaning, and that’s when value vanishes.
Market Value and Cost Realities
Let’s be honest about costs. With common coins like Silver War Nickels (35% silver, 100+ million minted), restoration rarely makes financial sense. I’ve watched collectors spend more on professional conservation than the coin could ever be worth. Unless it’s a truly rare date, enjoy it as a historical artifact—not an investment.
Grading Tips: Why Cleaned Coins Suffer
Here’s the harsh truth from grading rooms: services like PCGS spot restoration a mile away. Even slight cleaning usually lands you a “details” grade instead of a number. That notation can slash value because we collectors crave originality. If you’ve restored a common coin, grading it often costs more than the coin itself.
My Final Advice for Collectors
After all these years, my approach is simple: leave coins alone. Focus on prevention—good holders and cotton gloves make all the difference. When you find that crusty old coin at an estate sale? Cherish its character. Restoration usually disappoints. Remember—every mark tells part of its story, and that’s what makes collecting magical.
