Discoloration & Toning 1 1

[Stackerdude21]

What causes some coins to “Tarnish” (discolor) while some coins remain brilliant ?

[Hoghead515]

Im still learnind as well but Ive learned it is caused by reactions from the coin exposed to different elements. For example some coins thats been in albums tone where they been exposed to chemicals in the paper from the album. Or could be certain things in the air that the coin is exposed to.  Chemicals from surfaces the coin has laid on reacting to the metal. These are just things Ive read. Someone with more knowledge will be on soon to better answer your question. But to sum it up its mostly chemical reactions due to exposure to certain elements and conditions. I also read that humidid climates also play a big role in toning. Wether the source I read is correct or not I cannot say. 

Edited December 19, 2021 by Hoghead515

[Just Bob]

On 12/19/2021 at 3:16 AM, Hoghead515 said:

 Someone with more knowledge will be on soon to better answer your question. But to sum it up its mostly chemical reactions due to exposure to certain elements and conditions. I also read that humidid climates also play a big role in toning. 

No need for anyone else to elaborate. You answered it well enough.

[Coinbuf]

In a nutshell it comes from improper storage, coins stored properly in a temperature and humidity controlled environment will not tone or tone very little over a very long time.   Coins that are stored poorly in high heat, high humidity, exposed to chemicals, or some combination of these will tone, sometimes very quickly depending on the metal composition of the coin.

[Stackerdude21]

So, does say "Rainbow" toning diminish the value of a coin?

[RWB]

On 12/19/2021 at 12:21 PM, Stackerdude21 said:

So, does say "Rainbow" toning diminish the value of a coin?

Hoghead515's explanation works well. There are people who will pay a lot more for authentic, naturally "rainbow" toned, silver coins. But be very skeptical of on-line photos and descriptions - digital enhancement is commonplace and very deceptive.

[Coinbuf]

On 12/19/2021 at 10:21 AM, Stackerdude21 said:

So, does say "Rainbow" toning diminish the value of a coin?

Many collectors today want toned coins so no an attractively toned coin (be it rainbow or just nice rim toned) will in many cases sell for more, that is the "pretty coin" or eye appeal factor in todays market place.   The real issue and one that has been a bone of contention (and will continue to be) is what toning is real or natural vs toning that is AT or accelerated.    Accelerated toning if done right is very deceptive and can fool anyone, AT is easier to identify if you know what to look for.   But even then there are AT'd toned coins out in the market in top level TPG holders.

Bottom line is that the demand for toned coins over the past ten or so years has led the coin doctors (and collectors) to find ways to create toning in order to cash in on the demand, as with most things in life following the money will answer questions.   Here is an example of a coin that I am almost positive is an AT tone job, this Peace dollar is up for auction soon and in a PCGS holder.   I have no doubts that this coin will sell for big money even though it looks completely wrong for a peace dollar.

 

[J P M]

That 1925  looks like it was made special.

[Hoghead515]

Its very sad some greedy person will completely ruin a beautiful piece of history to feed their money addiction. I like money to but id rather go out and work for it instead of destroying a beautiful coin over 100 years old get it. Breaks my heart to see these mint state coins getting artifical toned. 

[Oldhoopster]

On 12/19/2021 at 4:18 PM, Hoghead515 said:

Its very sad some greedy person will completely ruin a beautiful piece of history to feed their money addiction. I like money to but id rather go out and work for it instead of destroying a beautiful coin over 100 years old get it. Breaks my heart to see these mint state coins getting artifical toned. 

Lots of coins were ruined by dipping when the blast white coins were all the rage.  You still see these dull, lusterless coins showing up.  If there is money to be made, somebody will try to cheat

Edited December 20, 2021 by Oldhoopster