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Introduction: why Clean Challenge Coins is so important
Clean Challenge Coins is Important. Challenge Coins not only represent honor and memories, but they are also treasured items by collectors. However, over time, their surfaces are susceptible to fingerprints, dust, grease, and even slight oxidation. Failure to clean challenge coins in time will not only affect its appearance, but may also reduce its collection value. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive explanation of [how to clean challenge coins], introducing 7 practical methods to restore the luster and prolong the life of your challenge coins. Whether you are a military fan, a collector, or a corporate gift collector, you can benefit from this article.
Detailed Methods Explanation: 7 Practical Tips for Clean Challenge Coins
1. Soapy Water + Soft Bristle Brush – The First Choice for Daily Clean Challenge Coins
If your Challenge Coins are only contaminated with ordinary dust or fingerprints, the most recommended method is to use mild soapy water. Prepare a bowl of warm water, add a few drops of non-additive detergent or mild hand sanitizer, and then use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the front and back of your Challenge Coins.
Tip: When using a toothbrush, brush gently in a circular motion to avoid scratches caused by excessive force. After cleaning, please rinse with cold water and dry with a microfiber cloth or air dry naturally.
Suitable for cleaning objects: copper coins, nickel coins, zinc alloy, stainless steel and other materials.
2. Distilled Water Soaking – Gentle Treatment for Deep Dust
Distilled water is purer than tap water, free of minerals and chemicals, especially suitable for soaking challenge coins with small cracks or engraved details on the surface.
The steps are as follows:
Soak challenge coins in distilled water for at least 8 hours (24 hours recommended);
Soak and then lightly brush the details to remove fine dust;
rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent water damage.
This method, although slightly more time-consuming, causes virtually zero damage to the coin and is commonly used by collectors.
3. Baking Soda + Warm Water – Home Recipe for Cleaning Stubbornly Stained Challenge Coins
To deal with stubborn grease stains on the surface of coins, light oxidation, and to clean challenge coins you can use baking soda. The method is as follows:
Add about two tablespoons of baking soda to a plastic bowl, pour in warm water and stir until it is in suspension;
Place the challenge coins flat in it for about 10 minutes;
Scrub or brush with a soft cloth;
Rinse with clean water, wipe dry and store.·
CAUTION: Avoid cleaning agents that are too alkaline, especially not for gold and silver challenge coins.
4. Weak Acetic Acid + Salt – A Natural Solution for Clean Challenge Coins with Mild Oxidation
Suitable for clean challenge coins that show slight rust spots or discoloration due to air oxidation. To make:
100ml white vinegar + 1 teaspoon of salt, mix thoroughly;
Use a cotton swab or cotton pad to dip into the mixture and wipe the oxidized area;
for 30 seconds or less, and then quickly rinse with water and dry completely. Then rinse quickly with water and dry completely.
This method is natural and non-toxic, but care should be taken to work quickly to prevent acidic corrosion of metal surfaces.
5. Isopropyl Alcohol to clean handprints and oils on Challenge Coins
Some users like to play with Challenge Coins in their hands, which can leave oils and sebum residues over time, forming yellow marks. They can be cleaned with 70% isopropyl alcohol:
Wipe the surface with a non-woven cloth or cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol;
Prolonged immersion is not recommended;
Cold water is also needed! Rinse and air dry.
TIP: Isopropyl alcohol has a low effect on plating, but should not be used on coins that have been painted or have special artwork.
6. Extended soaking in olive oil – a slow release solution for cleaning oxidized Challenge Coins
Olive oil is a common deep cleaning method in the collector community as it breaks down oxidized stains without corroding the coins:
Fully immerse Challenge Coins in olive oil for 3-7 days; for 1-7 days; for 1-7 days. days;
Change the oil every 1-2 days to avoid re-adsorption of dirt;
Wash with soapy water and dry.
Olive oil also forms a slight protective layer on metal surfaces to prevent re-oxidation by air.
7. Using an ultrasonic cleaner: proceed with caution
Some collectors use ultrasonic cleaners to deep clean challenge coins, especially for coins with intricate engraving details. However, it should be noted that:
is not recommended for soft metals, plated coins, or painted coins;
should not be used for more than 3 minutes;
It is recommended that only one coin be placed in the machine at a time, to prevent scratches on each other;
A small amount of neutral cleaning solution can be added to enhance the effect.
If you own high value or customized challenge coins, we recommend contacting a professional coin dealer or authenticator to handle the cleaning service.
How do I store Challenge Coins to prevent recontamination?
Clean Challenge Coins and storing them afterwards is critical. Here are conservation strategies used by professional collectors:
Use a dustproof coin case
A clear coin case or capsule protector will keep dust out while displaying the front and back artwork of each Challenge Coin. PVC-free materials are recommended to prevent deterioration from prolonged exposure.
Store in a dry and constant temperature environment
High humidity environment (e.g. basement, bathroom) can easily lead to oxidization of challenge coins, you should choose a dry box, sealed cabinet or other environment to store them, and put silica gel desiccant in them to absorb moisture.
Limit the frequency of touching
Even if you like to “play” with challenge coins, it is recommended to wear cotton gloves or only touch the edges of the coins to avoid finger oils affecting the surface luster.
Regular Inspection
Quarterly, and when spots or oxidation are found, clean Challenge coins in time to avoid extensive corrosion.
CONCLUSION & CALL TO ACTION: Give your Challenge coins a new shine!
Whether you are a military veteran, a police officer, a collector, or a participant in a corporate event, Challenge Coins carry exceptional value. With the 7 Practical Ways to Clean Challenge Coins and storage tips provided in this article, you can effectively protect the luster and historical significance of each Challenge Coin.
- Immediately check your collectible coins for dust, oxidation, and other problems;
- Choose the appropriate method to clean challenge coins;
- When you are done, visit CoolChallengeCoin.com to shop for high-quality products such as coin boxes, displays, and collecting solutions!
We specialize in customized, high-end coins and collection protection solutions, visit us for a free quote and advice!
