Copper verdigris is a very frustrating problem for copper coin numismatists. When I first started studying the problem I ran into all kinds of common removal techniques. Some examples: sodium cyanide, commercial dipping solutions, Coke, olive oil, etc. The consensus in the collecting community is to use extra virgin olive oil. This process takes months if not years. I'm too impatient for that and it's not safe due to variations in oil.

After testing every method I could find, I decided all of them were terrible. I was very surprized that nobody had taken on the challenge of removing verdigris from copper coins without damaging them.

As an experienced Chemist in the metalworking fluids industry, I decided to take the project on in my spare time. It was time to end my frustration with crappy methods of removal and spare myself the cost of using NCS. I deal with corrosion and metal daily, I knew in a matter of months I could develop something that worked and worked well for numismatic purposes. My goal was to remove the verdigris and leave the coin patina unharmed.

After a lot of lab work, I came up something....I call it VERDI-GONE™. Here's some information:

DESCRIPTION

VERDI-GONE™ is a water-soluble, clear, odorless, copper conservation fluid for the rapid removal of verdigris. Chemist developed, the gentle formula contains no cleaners, acids, solvents or other harsh chemicals. When used as directed, it will generally maintain the original oxidized/organic patina of aged copper while removing the green/blue cupric compound (acetate, sulfate, carbonate) surface verdigris.

As with any chemical product, results will vary based on numerous factors including degree of verdigris or corrosion, product amount used and dilution, exposure time, temperature, etc. For optimum results, treat only one coin at a time. VERDI-GONE™ is not intended to treat large quantities of copper pieces; it is a conservation fluid (not a cleaner) for copper coin numismatists.

FAQ

Q: How many coins will VERDI-GONE™ treat?
A: In concentrated form a 4oz bottle will easily treat many coins (both sides). However, this is highly dependent on the degree of surface verdigris.

Q: Can VERDI-GONE™ be diluted?
A: Yes. VERDI-GONE™ may be freely diluted with distilled water as low as 1:10 for very light verdigris. Experiment to find the right concentration for you!

Q: Will VERDI-GONE™ damage my coin?
A: When used as directed it should not. Some lightening of the patina is common (even NCS will change the patina with conservation). Overexposure to any chemical can produce adverse effects to a coin. Only use VERDI-GONE™ long enough to remove verdigris.

Q: Can I use VERDI-GONE™ on my BU (Brillant Uncirculated) coin?
A: VERDI-GONE™ is not recommended for BU coins.

Q: Is VERDI-GONE™ available in larger quantities?
A: Yes, a special 8-oz bottle is available to repeat customers. However, you must first buy a kit to be elgible.

Q: What is in VERDI-GONE™?
A: The active ingredient is a proprietary reacted molecule and absolutely not available anywhere else in the world. Each batch is individually chemist created in a laboratory.

Q: What is the shelf-life of VERDI-GONE™?
A: Stability testing is underway. Currently, it is recommended to dispose the the product within ONE YEAR after receiving it. Refrigerated storage may extend the shelf-life. Always store VERDI-GONE™ in a cool, dark area away from direct sunlight.

Q: Is VERDI-GONE™ dangerous to my health?
A: Absolutely not! VERDI-GONE™ is non-corrosive, non-carcinogenic, non-toxic, non-flammable, not irritating to skin and contains no solvents or harsh chemicals. (When working with ANY chemical, gloves and eye protection are still recommended as a safety precaution.)

Q: Does VERDI-GONE™ leave a residue?
A: Even without rinsing, VERDI-GONE™ will leave NO RESIDUE. However, rinsing with distilled water is recommended.

Q: Will VERDI-GONE™ remove other grime and organic deposits?
A: If the deposits are water-soluble, it may remove some of them, similar to using distilled water. VERDI-GONE™ contains NO CLEANERS and is not intended to remove such build-up. VERDI-GONE™ is designed to ONLY remove verdigris.

Q: What should I do if my VERDI-GONE™ arrives frozen?
A: Freezing will not harm the product. If it arrives frozen, simply allow to thaw at room temperature and use. DO NOT HEAT TO THAW! Heating may degrade the active ingredient and reduce the effectiveness of VERDI-GONE™.

After I was confident in VERDI-GONE™, I decided to give it the ultimate test....on my raw 1909-S VDB I wanted to have slabbed. Here's the results:

BEFORE CONSERVATION





AFTER CONSERVATION













ANOTHER RESULT ON AN INDIAN