Help cleaning a cast iron notary seal stamp

[diggingthe1]

Trying to clean this for a friend. I was about to put this in an electrolysis tank. Any ideas, I would love to get it working. Found in Cripple Creek so I bet it's something good. I didn't want to mess up the brass. Thanks for any help.

 

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[tamrock]

If mine, I'd just go simple and sandblast it clean first and then see if I could just give it a paint job to look presentable. I see those from time to time in antique stores and my local Lafayette indoor flea market which opened up the year after I moved here now 34 years ago. A place I've found many treasures at over the years. Those things I believe go for around $25. to $35. it seems in unrestored as-is condition.

 

[diggingthe1]

If mine, I'd just go simple and sandblast it clean first and then see if I could just give it a paint job to look presentable. I see those from time to time in antique stores and my local Lafayette indoor flea market which opened up the year after I moved here now 34 years ago. A place I've found many treasures at over the years. Those things I believe go for around $25. to $35. it seems in unrestored as-is condition.

Thanks for the reply Tamrock! I have 2 in my store! Im just hoping the brass seal is something important. I've always wanted a little sand blaster!!!

 

[tamrock]

Thanks for the reply Tamrock! I have 2 in my store! Im just hoping the brass seal is something important. I've always wanted a little sand blaster!!!

Yeah it could likely have a seal related to some local history. You could soak it in vintage awhile and scrub it with a wire brush also. I did that on some old rusty stuff I've found around here and it loosens up the layers of rust somewhat.

 

[The Rebel]

A bath in white vinegar or molasses is a good alternative

 

[tamrock]

I might add that I've used a brass bristle wire brush instead of steel after a white vinegar soak.

 

[diggingthe1]

A bath in white vinegar or molasses is a good alternative

Thanks, I'll give that a try. I have plenty of items to restore!! The electrolysis is doing great for now.