I've always had a thing for Rainbow Toning on coins and this thing is sure Beautiful to look at! I find it magical how the sunlight splits into its different wavelengths, from something as simple as a buildup of oxides on the surface. And the toning process has so many influences that every coin is unique and colours differently. This Copper 2p 'ellan vannin' coin is from the Isle of Man and it's turned Purple, Blue and Gold, the colours change in vibrancy as you move the angle of the coin in the light.
Ellen Vannin means 'Isle of Man' in the Manx language. The coin is common and was minted between 1988-95, it's made from Bronze and weighs 7.12 grams. On the front is a design depicting a stone cross in front of a patterned disc. The cross contains various handworking tools associated with local crafts: knitting needles, bobbin or spindle, weaving shuttle, and a pottery wheel with finished vessel.
All metals oxidise/tone in different ways and Copper coins usually tone naturally to a rich chocolate brown, Silver takes longer to tone and eventually goes black. Bronze is copper with about 12% zinc which makes a big difference. There are lots of factors involved such as ultraviolet light and contaminants, both in the atmosphere or from direct contact. The best way to stop toning is to use modern coin storage capsules or flips which are made from inert materials, these create a protective environment around your coins.
