Cleaning steel pennies, especially those minted during World War II in 1943, requires a gentle touch and an understanding of their unique composition. Unlike their copper counterparts, steel pennies are made from zinc-coated steel, making them susceptible to corrosion and rust if not properly cared for. This guide will walk you through cleaning steel pennies, ensuring they remain in good condition for years.
Why Steel Pennies Need Special Care
Steel pennies were produced in 1943 as a wartime effort to conserve copper for military use. Their core is steel, coated with a thin layer of zinc to prevent rust. However, this zinc layer can wear off over time, exposing the steel to elements that cause corrosion. This unique composition means steel pennies require special care during cleaning to avoid damaging the zinc coating or accelerating the corrosion process.
The zinc coating that protects steel pennies is relatively thin and can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods. Once the steel underneath is exposed, the penny can quickly rust and deteriorate, significantly reducing its collectible value and aesthetic appeal. Thus, it’s crucial to use gentle cleaning methods that remove dirt and grime without compromising the integrity of the zinc coating.
Essential Items for Cleaning Steel Pennies
To safely clean your steel pennies, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
- Distilled water: To avoid the minerals in tap water that can cause spots or further corrosion.
- Mild soap: A gentle, chemical-free soap to help loosen grime without damaging the zinc coating.
- Soft-bristled brush: To gently scrub the pennies without scratching the surface.
- Soft cloth: For drying the pennies after cleaning.
While cleaning is generally safe, wearing gloves can protect your skin from irritation and prevent your fingers from leaving oils on the cleaned pennies. Additionally, working in a well-ventilated area can help avoid inhaling dust or debris that may be dislodged during cleaning.
Pre-Cleaning Steps for Steel Pennies
Before cleaning, closely inspect each penny for signs of significant corrosion or damage. Coins with substantial historical value or key dates may be better left uncleaned, as cleaning can reduce their numismatic value.
Set up a clean, soft towel on a flat surface to work on, and have a separate, dry cloth ready for drying the pennies post-cleaning. Ensure your work area is free from clutter and any substances that could accidentally damage the coins.
Step-by-Step Steel Pennies Cleaning Instructions
It’s crucial to understand the importance of each step and how it contributes to the overall cleaning process without damaging the pennies.
Step 1. Mixing Your Cleaning Solution
The first step involves creating a gentle cleaning solution by mixing mild soap with distilled water. The reason for using distilled water is its purity; tap water often contains minerals that can deposit on the pennies, potentially causing spots or further corrosion. The mild soap breaks down and lifts away the grime without harsh chemicals that could strip the zinc coating or etch the steel.
Step 2. Soaking the Pennies
Soaking the pennies in the solution for a few minutes serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it softens accumulated grime and dirt, making removing it easier. It’s essential to avoid overcrowding the bowl to ensure each penny is fully submerged and has ample contact with the cleaning solution. This soaking period allows the soap to penetrate and loosen the dirt, preparing it for removal.
Step 3. Gentle Scrubbing
Using a soft-bristled brush for scrubbing is a carefully chosen method to balance effectiveness with gentleness. The brush should be used to lightly scrub each penny in a circular motion, which helps to lift away the loosened dirt without scratching the penny’s surface. Special attention should be paid to areas with visible dirt or grime, but excessive force should be avoided to protect the delicate zinc coating. This gentle scrubbing action is crucial for thoroughly cleaning the pennies while preserving their integrity.
Step 4. Rinsing Off Soap Residue
Rinsing each penny with distilled water after scrubbing is critical to ensure that no soap residue remains. Soap left on the penny can attract more dirt over time and may lead to a film that dulls the penny’s appearance. Distilled water is used for rinsing for the same reason it’s used in the cleaning solution: to avoid the deposition of minerals that can occur with tap water. Each penny should be individually rinsed to ensure all soap is removed, further protecting the penny from potential damage.
By following these detailed steps, collectors and enthusiasts can clean their steel pennies effectively, preserving their historical value and aesthetic appeal. This gentle cleaning method ensures that the pennies are cleaned and protected from damage during the process, maintaining their condition for years to come.
Tips for effective cleaning:
- Patience is key. Allow the pennies to soak for a few minutes to loosen the dirt.
- Be gentle when scrubbing to avoid scratching the coins.
- Clean one penny at a time to ensure thorough cleaning and rinsing.
Drying and Storing Your Pennies
After cleaning, gently pat the pennies dry with a soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the surface. Once dry, store your pennies in a cool, dry place. For best preservation, use acid-free paper envelopes or archival-quality flips to protect them from environmental factors and further corrosion.
Regularly inspect your collection for signs of corrosion or damage. For pennies that are displayed or handled frequently, consider using gloves to prevent oils from your skin from causing damage. Maintaining a stable environment with controlled humidity can also prevent moisture from accelerating corrosion.
Can vinegar damage pennies?
Vinegar can clean pennies, particularly copper ones, by removing tarnish and corrosion due to its acidic nature. When a penny is soaked in vinegar, the acid reacts with the tarnish (copper oxide) and dissolves it, making it appear cleaner and brighter.
However, for steel pennies, especially those with a zinc coating like the 1943 steel cents, vinegar can potentially cause damage. The acid in vinegar can react with zinc and steel, leading to corrosion and further damage to the protective coating.
Therefore, while vinegar can be effective for cleaning copper pennies, it’s not recommended for steel pennies or any coins of numismatic value due to the risk of damage and devaluation.
Can baking soda clean pennies?
Baking soda can clean pennies as a mild abrasive that gently polishes the surface without harsh chemicals. When mixed with water to create a paste, baking soda can be applied to the penny and rubbed gently to remove dirt, grime, and minor oxidation.
This method is particularly useful for copper pennies, as it can help restore their shine without the chemical reactions that can occur with acidic cleaners. However, with baking soda, caution should be exercised when cleaning any collectible coins, including pennies. While mild, the abrasive nature of baking soda can still alter the surface of the coin, potentially reducing its numismatic value.
Professional advice is recommended before cleaning for collectible or antique pennies.
Cleaning steel pennies can be rewarding, preserving a piece of history for future generations to enjoy. By understanding the unique needs of these coins and following the steps outlined above, collectors can ensure their steel pennies remain in the best possible condition. Remember, the key to successful cleaning is a gentle approach, using the right supplies and techniques to protect these historical treasures.
