How to Make Coins Look Aged

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Saucepan

  • 2 cups salt

  • Plastic bowl

  • 1/2 cup vinegar

  • Bleach

  • Towel

  • Emery board

There are many reasons you might want your coins to look aged. School projects, a uniform look within a coin collection and craft projects are just a few of those reasons. Making a coin looked aged is a simple process that can take anywhere between a few hours and a day or two. However, if you want to age expensive or rare coins, consult a coin specialist before proceeding.

Advertisement

Salt Water Method

Step 1

Fill your saucepan with water and heat on high until it begins to boil.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Add 2 cups of salt directly into the water and heat until the salt has dissolved. It should take the salt only a few minutes to dissolve completely.

Advertisement

Step 3

Cool the salt water by setting it aside. Once it has cooled, pour it directly into your plastic bowl. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar to the bowl and stir.

Step 4

Place the coins into the salt water mixture and leave overnight. Remove your coins in the morning and assess the aged look. If you feel that your coins do not look old enough, place them back into the mixture and leave for another 24 hours.

Advertisement

Bleach Method for Silver Coins

Step 1

Add 1 part bleach to 1 part water directly into the plastic bowl. Place your coins into the mixture and set aside for one hour. If you would like your coins to have a darker look, do not dilute the bleach with water.

Advertisement

Step 2

Remove the coins from the bleach and rinse with water. Pat dry with a towel or air dry the coins.

Step 3

Rub the emery board over the sides, front and back of the coin. Use a firm and vigorous, back-and-forth motion. Continue until satisfied with the look of your coin. If you would like the coin to appear damaged, place it on a hard surface and strike with a hammer.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references