Old dirty coins will become collectible jewelry

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I collect old vintage coins from many places. They are all from foreign countries (I live in the USA) and typically date anywhere from the 1940s to the 1980s. I have a few that date all the way back to the 1700s, but I'm not drilling holes in anything that old. As you can see they are grubby and dirty. A good soaking in dish detergent with a gentle scrubbing using a soft toothbrush still doesn't remove all the grime.

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It's time to get my gloves on and get down to business. Using my magic coin-cleaning formula, I get the things pretty darn clean.

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Looking much better than when they started, the coins are ready to be drilled.

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A punch and a tap from a hammer puts a tiny pit into the metal giving the drill bit something to hold onto.

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Drilling a tiny hole is a tricky process. The coin gets hot and my fingers are close to that bit. Geez...

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After every coin gets a hole, the sharp edges are softened and a good polishing takes place. I'm lovin' the transformation!

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Give 'em each a hoop or bail. They need something to keep them hanging from the chain.

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Choices, choices, choices ... which chain will look best with which coin? Let the games continue.

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Finally, when all is cleaned, drilled, and chained, these pieces are ready to be listed here /store/c6/Coin_Jewelry_and_Accessories.html or on http://www.hendywood.etsy.com A unique piece for a coin collector!