Why are my silver eagles turning black?

Tarnishing, also called toning, is an effect on the outermost layer of a metal that causes the metal to become discolored. Like iron rusts when exposed to oxygen, silver can tarnish when exposed to the air due to a reaction between silver and hydrogen sulfide in the air.

Will Silver Eagles tarnish?

Tarnish, a chemical reaction spurred by silver’s interaction with hydrogen sulfide (a gas found in small quantities in the air), can significantly impact the value of any collectible.

Should you clean tarnished silver coins?

Tips. Never try to remove the natural oxidation from coins, such as the tarnish on silver coins. Tarnish on silver coins is called “toning” and the coin is worth more with the toning intact. Removing it will damage the coin’s surface and greatly reduce its value.

How do you clean tarnished silver eagle coins?

More videos on YouTube

  1. Step 1: Line Container With Aluminum Foil.
  2. Step 2: Sprinkle Baking Soda.
  3. Step 3: Add Tarnished Silver Coins.
  4. Step 4: Add More Baking Soda & Hot Water.
  5. Step 5: Rub Away the Tarnish & Grime.
  6. Step 6: Rinse Silver Coin With Cold Water.
  7. Step 7: Inspect Your Coins.

Should I clean my silver eagles?

Cleaning Silver Coins: Which Kinds of Silver Bullion items are OK to Clean? You can for instance gently clean an oxidized older common 1 oz American Silver Eagle coin, or 1 oz Silver Rounds, older silver bullion bars, or common pre-1964 90% US Silver Coins.

How do you clean coins without hurting the value?

Baking soda and vinegar have proven to be one of the most effective ways to clean tarnished coins. Submerge the coins in a shallow bath of vinegar and let them soak for at least an hour. If you don’t have vinegar on hand, filtered tap or distilled water can be used as a substitute.

How do you clean heavily tarnished silver?

For silver that is heavily tarnished, mix a paste of three parts baking soda to one part water. Wet the silver and apply the cleaner with a soft, lint-free cloth (not paper towels). Work the paste into the crevices, turning the cloth as it gets gray. Rinse and buff dry.

Is it OK to clean silver eagles?

Can you clean coins without losing value?

It is best not to clean rare coins as removing the patina can significantly reduce the value of them. For this reason, most coin hobbyists almost never clean their coins. In fact, 99% of coins do not increase in value after you clean them, but many will be greatly devalued.

Should I keep my silver bars in plastic?

If you purchase silver coins, they may come in a plastic bag. To keep them safe, consider buying coin capsules to store them in. The plastic and capsules will reduce the risk of damage or tarnishing.

How do you store silver bars at home?

Use an enclosed container that will minimize its exposure to air, and one that won’t scratch your coins or bars. Storing silver bullion (and jewelry and silverware) in a soft cloth can slow down tarnishing. If your silver does eventually tarnish, use a cleaner specifically designed for silver.