FORVM`s Classical Numismatics Discussion Board

Numismatic and History Discussion Forums => Uncleaned Ancient Coin Discussion Forum => Topic started by: nikopolis1 on June 02, 2021, 06:01:17 am

Title: Separating fused lead coins
Post by: nikopolis1 on June 02, 2021, 06:01:17 am
Lead celtic imitations of Odesos .How to separete them?So far soaking in formic acid for a week did not help.I try to drive a needle in between -I give up ,lead is too soft and I will damaged them.I  think to try electrolysis  .Any sugestions for any other treatment?I suspect eletrolysis will strip the patina
Title: Re: Separating fused lead coins
Post by: Ken W2 on June 06, 2021, 02:38:52 pm

Maybe 3 or 4 wood toothpicks used as wedges spaced around the edges, gently pushing them in a little bit at the time ?  Wood is less likely to damage the metal and using multiple leverage points might help too. Good luck.

Ken   
Title: Re: Separating fused lead coins
Post by: Ron C2 on June 06, 2021, 04:53:56 pm
have you tried boiling them in water?

The issue with lead is that it both soft and has a low melting point.  Heat would eventually release them, but it would be easy to overdo it and melt the surface.  Boiling and then gentle prying with a wooden wedge is something you can try.
Title: Re: Separating fused lead coins
Post by: nikopolis1 on June 07, 2021, 12:32:15 am
Boiling sounds good to me .I will try .Thanks for the idea +++ .I will leave electrolysis and heating like last resort