What say you?

[lm5403]

Most people assUme that PCGS/NGC don't slab cleaned coins. They slab cleaned coins all the time. What they do not do is slab harshly or improperly cleaned coins or note on the label that the coin is cleaned.

One must also learn to tell the difference between hairlines and die polish lines. Until you know what you are looking at, you might think it's one when it's the other.

[olddiecast]

I prefer mine uncleaned but if its for someones personal collection surely it is down to choice

[TiasTreasures]

I saw something very sad last Sunday. We went to the San Diego Swap Meet (I think this would be called a Flea Market in most cities). Saw a table full of coins, went over to look. There were about fifty Indian Head Pennies and Buffalo Nickels. ALL of them had been soaked in something harsh, all the patina was gone and they were as bright and shiny as the day they were minted. Obviously, the sellers didn't know they had totally destroyed the value of the coins.

[poppa501]

I saw something very sad last Sunday. We went to the San Diego Swap Meet (I think this would be called a Flea Market in most cities). Saw a table full of coins, went over to look. There were about fifty Indian Head Pennies and Buffalo Nickels. ALL of them had been soaked in something harsh, all the patina was gone and they were as bright and shiny as the day they were minted. Obviously, the sellers didn't know they had totally destroyed the value of the coins.

Tia--That is a shame! I personally feel that some coins can be improved by gentle cleaning, the wholesale dipping or harsh cleaning serves no purpose. You should have bought a handfull. In another 10-50 years they will probably look real good!
Poppa