CPK Posted December 31, 2023 · Supporter Share Posted December 31, 2023 Some of my silver coins are also starting to tone a bit. I like it. I much prefer toned silver to bright, shiny metal. An ancient coin is supposed to look old! 🙂 1 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hrefn Posted December 31, 2023 · Supporter Share Posted December 31, 2023 Some collectors of modern coins prefer their silver to be untarnished. I have seen coins enthusiastically described as “Blast White,” suggesting that the lack of toning connotes superior quality. Ancient and medieval coin collectors know that no silver coin survives for one or two millennia without tarnish. They have all been cleaned, at some time and to some degree. These cleaned coins tarnish again. Cabinet toning suggests the coin has been out of the ground for a while, ergo not part of a recent hoard, which makes it more desirable. No one would ever artificially tone their coins for sale, if toning would not help the coin command a higher price. My advice is not to worry about it. Toning can add beauty, and encourage a higher price should you choose to sell. Here is a silver siliqua from the Harptree Hoard, dug up in 1887. Doubtless it was initially cleaned, and has retoned. I love the way it looks, and I would wager most Ancient Coin collectors would like it also. Here is a more recent silver dirham. I do not think the toning detracts at all, do you? Or this silver sceat? None of these coins would be more beautiful if the toning were magically removed. 3 2 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lordmarcovan Posted January 1 · Member Share Posted January 1 (edited) 7 hours ago, Hrefn said: Here is a silver siliqua from the Harptree Hoard, dug up in 1887. Doubtless it was initially cleaned, and has retoned. I love the way it looks, and I would wager most Ancient Coin collectors would like it also. I have one from the Harptree Hoard myself. Mine is a bit darker than yours. I like the look of yours a little better, since it has hints of iridescence. Edited January 1 by lordmarcovan 3 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Octavius Posted January 4 · Supporter Share Posted January 4 The toning on your coins looks very attractive to me. I would say it increases their desirability and value. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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