So before we get into toning, we have to define it. So toning is: a term to describe the tarnish or light patina that forms on the surface of the metal due to exposure to environmental agents or toxins.

                Also, there are two types of toning. The first one is natural toning (NT). The other is artificial toning (AT). Both look the same at first, but with some practice you can tell the difference between the two.  Just to clear it up, artificial toning can be bad.

            So, why do some people like toning? Well it looks nice on some coins,

            So why do some people not like toned coins? Well, some people artificially color coins.  This is clad coin doctoring. They put coins in the oven and bake them to get color. Often times they do this with rare coins and make them look original and more valuable.

            This brings up my next point. Toning can tell you about a coins’ past. It can tell you that a coin has not been cleaned. It can also tell you that a coin has been artificially toned. This is an interesting thought. Because people try to add toning, and remove it. It is in the eye of the beholder.

            We all know not to clean a coin. But people who know better take toning off coins. Still people who have a coin that is a nice uncirculated coin; ruin it by unsuccessful artificial toning.

            Other people won’t buy a toned coin. They say it is a form of rust or tarnish. They are actually right. Look back up at the definition. It says “tarnish or light patina”. But it is only a “light patina”. {NOTE: The difference between rust and tonning is huge. If a metal rusts, it looses metal. If a coin tones; all the metal is intact.} So it won’t decrease value.

            On the other hand, some people have sets made up of only toned coins. They say that they have more eye appeal. They also say that it shows that a coin is original.          

            On an internet poll, the data showed that 15% of collectors liked toning. Keep in mind that only 32 people were surveyed.

            So what do you think? Do you like blast white silver? Or are you drawn in by toned coins? Still need some time to think?  Do a search on toned coins. That will give you an Idea of toned coins!

                                                Jeremy Oaks ANA 3142567