Cleaning rust from old cans

[hemihampton]

Ok thanks!! So what should I do next??

Unfortunately that can is extremely common. Worth about $5-$10 in mint 1+ shape. in that grade 6 condition worth about $0.0 Here's a tip on what to look for on a 1930's can. It will usually have one really big opener hole & can opening instructions on back. Also flat non beaded lids but don't want to get to complicated. Pic below. LEON.

 

[BenTheDigger]

Lol thought so I have 2 more cans like that with no holes (besides the 2 triangles on top) and no dents. That is fine that there very common I would still like to get the rust off because they were my first find ever. I heard some people use citric acid, oxalic acid and hydrochloric acid (I have some of this for swimming pools).Thanks,-Ben

 

[hemihampton]

Most of those acids are highly toxic & dangerous. For a beginner best to use something safer like your own homemade citric acid which can be made using Lemon Juice & Vinegar. try using 50% of each. LEON.

 

[BenTheDigger]

Ok I will, so no water just 1/2 lemon juice and 1/2 vinegar? How long do I leave the bottles in for?Thanks,-Ben Larsen

 

[hemihampton]

Sorry for Delay. Ben, Try adding 16 oz's of Real Lemon juice to 1 gallon of water & A cup of Salt. Adding 16 oz's of Vinegar optional. Try Soaking for 24 hours & see what happens. LEON.

 

[Robby Raccoon]

Would that work on this can too? I can see words and stuff on the back through the rust.
For beer cans, it's the ones with seams that are better liked?

 

[hemihampton]

It should work on that. LEON.

 

[Robby Raccoon]

Super. Thanks.

 

[M.C.Glass]

I recently snagged a lot of a few different openers and there was one copper plated monster that said "for Keglined cans".It looks just like the monster hole in Leon's Pabst can above. Must be a 30's opener?

 

[hemihampton]

Yes, Thats a mid 1930's churchkey or Can Opener. Cool Color. As time went on the can opener gradually got smaller & smaller. Opener hole size can help date a rusty mystery can. LEON.