Preserving the Legacy: Conservation of the Roosevelt Dime’s Original Bust

The Historical Significance of the Roosevelt Dime Bust

The bust that served as the model for the Roosevelt dime represents a fascinating intersection of art, history, and numismatics. Created during a period of national mourning following President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s death in 1945, this bust became the foundation for one of America’s most enduring coin designs. The original model, attributed to Selma Burke’s 1944 sculpture created during a live sitting with FDR, captured the president’s distinctive features in a way that would resonate with generations of Americans.

Understanding the historical context of this piece is crucial for proper preservation. The bust was created during World War II, a time when materials were scarce and artistic expression often served patriotic purposes. The transition from Burke’s original sculpture to John R. Sinnock’s final coin design involved significant technical considerations, as the relief needed to be modified for practical coinage production. This transformation from three-dimensional sculpture to two-dimensional coin design adds another layer of historical value to any original bust or model.

Understanding the Materials and Their Vulnerabilities

The original bust was likely created using traditional sculptural materials such as clay, plaster, or bronze. Each of these materials presents unique conservation challenges. Clay and plaster models are particularly susceptible to environmental damage, including moisture absorption, cracking, and surface deterioration. Bronze, while more durable, can develop oxidation patterns that, while sometimes aesthetically pleasing, can also lead to structural weakness if left unchecked.

Many collectors and institutions have unfortunately learned the hard way that improper handling can cause irreversible damage. I’ve seen too many valuable pieces ruined by improper cleaning or storage. Here is how to keep this safe for the next generation. The key is understanding that each material requires specific care protocols. For instance, bronze develops a natural patina over time that actually protects the metal underneath. Aggressive cleaning to remove this patina can strip away not just the surface coloration but also microscopic layers of the metal itself.

The Science of Toning and Oxidation

Toning on metallic surfaces, whether on coins or bronze sculptures, is a natural chemical process involving the reaction between the metal and environmental factors such as sulfur compounds, oxygen, and moisture. On bronze busts, this process creates what is known as a patina – a thin layer that can range from brown to green depending on the specific environmental conditions and the alloy composition.

For collectors of the Roosevelt dime bust, understanding toning is crucial. The natural aging process can actually enhance the piece’s value and historical authenticity. However, uneven or accelerated toning can indicate environmental problems. Signs of problematic oxidation include:

• Green or white powdery deposits (indicating active corrosion)
• Dark spots that appear suddenly or spread rapidly
• Surface pitting or flaking
• Unusual color changes that don’t match the natural aging pattern

Proper environmental control is the best defense against damaging oxidation. This means maintaining stable temperature and humidity levels, avoiding direct sunlight, and keeping the piece away from sources of atmospheric pollutants.

PVC Damage: The Silent Killer of Collectibles

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) damage is one of the most common and devastating forms of deterioration affecting numismatic and sculptural pieces. PVC was historically used in many coin holders, plastic wraps, and storage materials. When PVC degrades, it releases hydrochloric acid, which can cause irreversible damage to both metal and organic materials.

Signs of PVC damage include:

• Greenish deposits on the surface
• Sticky or oily residues
• Etching or pitting of the surface
• Discoloration that appears to be “bleeding” from contact points

For the Roosevelt dime bust, PVC damage could manifest as green deposits in crevices or along edges where the piece may have been in contact with harmful plastics. The damage is often irreversible, making prevention absolutely critical. Always use archival-quality materials for storage and display, and regularly inspect pieces for early signs of PVC-related deterioration.

Proper Storage Solutions and Holders

The choice of storage materials can make the difference between preservation and destruction. For sculptural pieces like the Roosevelt dime bust, consider the following storage solutions:

Archival Storage Boxes

Acid-free, lignin-free storage boxes provide excellent protection against environmental fluctuations. Look for boxes specifically designed for three-dimensional objects, with adequate padding to prevent movement and contact damage.

Display Cases

For pieces intended for display, museum-quality cases with UV-filtering glass and proper sealing are essential. The case should include silica gel packets or other humidity control systems to maintain stable environmental conditions.

Individual Wrapping

If the bust needs to be wrapped for storage, use only archival-quality materials. Acid-free tissue paper, cotton gloves for handling, and polyethylene sheeting (not PVC) are appropriate choices. Never wrap the piece in newspaper, regular plastic wrap, or any material that might off-gas harmful chemicals.

To Clean or Not to Clean: A Conservationist’s Perspective

This is perhaps the most controversial topic in collectible preservation. My professional recommendation, based on decades of experience, is almost always: do not clean valuable pieces. The natural aging process, including toning and patina development, is part of the object’s history and can actually increase its value to serious collectors and institutions.

However, there are exceptions. Cleaning might be appropriate when:

• There is active corrosion that threatens the structural integrity of the piece
• Harmful deposits (such as PVC residue) need to be removed
• The piece has been contaminated with substances that could cause long-term damage

If cleaning becomes necessary, it should only be performed by professional conservators using methods appropriate to the specific materials involved. Never use household cleaners, abrasive materials, or harsh chemicals. Even something as seemingly innocuous as distilled water can cause damage if applied incorrectly.

Environmental Control: The Foundation of Preservation

Environmental control is the single most important factor in preserving the Roosevelt dime bust and similar collectibles. The ideal conditions include:

• Temperature: 65-70°F (18-21°C)
• Relative humidity: 45-55%
• Light exposure: Minimal, with UV filtration for any display lighting
• Air quality: Filtered to remove pollutants and particulate matter

Sudden changes in any of these parameters can cause stress to the materials, leading to cracking, warping, or other forms of damage. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels, and consider investing in a climate control system for valuable collections.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Even with perfect storage conditions, regular inspection is essential. Examine the piece at least quarterly for signs of:

• Environmental damage
• Pest activity (particularly relevant for organic materials)
• Structural changes or developing cracks
• Changes in surface appearance

Document these inspections with photographs and written notes. This documentation can be invaluable for tracking the piece’s condition over time and can provide important information for insurance purposes or future conservation efforts.

Insurance and Documentation

For pieces of historical significance like the Roosevelt dime bust, proper documentation and insurance are essential components of preservation. Maintain detailed records including:

• Provenance and acquisition history
• Professional appraisals
• Conservation records and treatment history
• Photographic documentation from multiple angles
• Any relevant historical research or contextual information

Ensure that your insurance coverage specifically addresses the unique risks associated with sculptural and numismatic pieces. Standard homeowner’s insurance often provides inadequate coverage for valuable collectibles.

Conclusion: Preserving History for Future Generations

The Roosevelt dime bust represents more than just a model for a coin design; it embodies a pivotal moment in American history and the artistic interpretation of one of our nation’s most significant leaders. Preserving this piece requires a commitment to understanding its materials, vulnerabilities, and historical context.

By implementing proper storage solutions, maintaining stable environmental conditions, avoiding harmful cleaning practices, and conducting regular inspections, collectors can ensure that this important piece of numismatic history survives for future generations to study and appreciate. Remember, the goal of conservation is not just to prevent damage, but to maintain the piece’s historical integrity and authenticity.

The next time you handle or view the Roosevelt dime bust, consider the journey it has taken from Selma Burke’s original sculpture to its role as the model for one of America’s most recognizable coins. With proper care and preservation, this piece can continue to tell its story for centuries to come.

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