Identify Metal and Corrosion Type Before Touching
30 minutes per findClassify coin vs iron relic vs copper alloy; photograph all sides dry, log in notepad before any cleaning attempt.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for find cleaning preservation — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Classify coin vs iron relic vs copper alloy; photograph all sides dry, log in notepad before any cleaning attempt.
Start with distilled water soak and soft brush; escalate to olive oil soak for crusty copper only after research.
Air-dry completely, seal in archival holder with desiccant for iron, compress documentation photo for catalog.
Update notepad catalog with cleaning history; consult conservator if value may exceed amateur cleaning risk.
Logs metal type, cleaning methods attempted, and before/after condition for each conserved find.
Archives high-quality before and after photos without degrading patina detail in storage.
Tracks soak durations for olive oil and distilled water cleaning cycles.
Schedules follow-up inspection dates for iron relics in storage.
Cleaning Methods by Material
| Material | Safe Start | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Silver coin | Soap + water | Polish compounds |
| Copper coin | Distilled water soak | Harsh acids |
| Iron relic | Dry brush only | Water without seal plan |
| Gold | Warm soapy water | Abrasive cloth |
Overlap passes in a grid pattern — random wandering leaves large areas unsearched.
Note depth, signal ID, and GPS for every good find — context drives historical value.
Leave ground as you found it — unfilled holes get detectorists banned from sites.