Patinated Coin: Before And After

A member asked to see one of my coins before and after patination. I had several coins already Zapped and I chose the one you see to the left because I did not mind polishing it a bit. I used my 800 mA power source as opposed to the Pyramid 26 KX. The smaller unit with a smaller container is much more convenient for my patinating needs.

The coin has a bit of pitting and shows up in the photograph. However, the thrust of the article is to demonstrate what can be done using my technique. I Reversed my leads as I wrote about in my last patination article. I placed the coin in the solution for 10 seconds, pulled the coin and rotated the clip to another position.

I repeated three times for a total patination time of 30 seconds. I could have continued with the process until the coin was much darker but stopped at the point I thought the coin would look best. Perhaps I should have chosen a much better coin but this coin suffices to illustrate my point. My e-mail is as follows and if you have questions please feel free to ask. jceaus@yahoo.com I think it is good to ask questions openly so the entire group benefits. Thank you and God Bless.. Jerry..

Zappers: Patinate Your Coins Using Reverse Electrolysis

About three years ago I developed a technique for artificially adding patina to a Zapped coin and I am sharing with each of you. The technique works best with bronze coins as opposed to copper. I use the method to patinate coins I have had to Zap for long periods of time.
The process is very simple and if you follow my directions you will have good success. First of all, make sure your Zapped coin is clean and devoid of all debris. Next, I want you to reverse the leads to your zapper. The negative lead is connected to your anode and the positive lead is connected to your cathode.
It is best to work with a “dirty” solution or a solution in which you have Zapped coins. Place the coin in the solution the same as if you were preparing to Zap. Turn the current on and leave the coin in the solution for about 10 seconds. Immediately pull the coin after 10 seconds and rotate the alligator clip to another position on the coin. Otherwise you will have a bright spot on the coin where the clip was attached.
Allow the coin to remain in the solution for another 10 seconds, pull the coin, and rotate the clip again. Repeat this process until the coin is as dark as you like. Once the coin is the value you like then wash with running water and allow the coin to dry. The patinating process may take one to two minutes or even longer using this process but the results can be really great. Give it a try and let me know if you have questions. You can e-mail me at jceaus@yahoo.com One other thing, be sure and return your leads to the normal Zapping position so things will be ready for your next zapping session. Thanks for reading and God Bless.. Jerry..

A Safe Way To Store Your Zapped And Cleaned Coins

This article is for all you Zappers who want to know how to store your coins once they are zapped. This is a question I am often asked. Please read and if you have questions, write me. You can reach me at jceaus@yahoo.com

I am assuming you are zapping your coins as we teach you to do on CoinZappers. Pull your coin from the solution and drop the coin in a small container of white vinegar. You should see your coin fizz for 30 seconds or so. Once the coin ceases to fizz, move to the next step.

Wash your coin in water using a mild dishwashing liquid. I think most all the liquids are mild. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.

Place your coin(s) on a window ledge and allow the coin(s) to dry. You may want to place your coin on your deck where it will be in direct sunlight. Turn the coin over at least once while drying. I think a couple of hours in sunlight are sufficient.

If you plan to wax your coin, wax the coin with Ren Wax. The last time I looked Tony and Tom had Ren Wax at commonbonze.com

I suggest a thin layer of wax. The wax can be applied with your finger or with a very soft toothbrush.

You are now ready for storage. I recommend an archival flip made from prolar polyester. Be certain your flips DO NOT contain PVC. I personally like the 2”x 2” size flips.

I hope this information helps. Please write me at jceaus@yahoo.com if you have questions. One other thing, if you are not a member of CoinZappers I suggest you join. We have great members with a vast knowledge of coin zapping. The URL is as follows: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/coinzappers and simply state that Jerry sent you.

Don’t forget about our new group, CoinPhotography. We have great members with a wonderful knowledge of photographing coins. The URL is as follows: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/coinphotography Simply say that Jerry asked you to join. God Bless.. Jerry..