How to remove glue / adhesive residue from metal?

Question

How to remove glue / adhesive residue from metal. I need to remove the "cloudy patch" around the tower without scrubbing and without damaging the coin. This coin had a painted design glued on it. When the design was removed, the residues of the glue can be seen. I have tried acetone, petrol, sanitiser, glue remover, even dichloromethane but no luck. This coin had the design glued on 10 years ago and it is made of copper and nickel. Can anyone help me with what chemical, solution to use. Thank you

Update:

UK Products please

Dr W · Accepted Answer

Have you tried WD-40 (the miracle chemical?)
https://wd40.co.uk/

Acetone, petrol, dichloromethane are all the same class of chemical. I suspect your "glue remover" is more of the same (ethanol + C12-C14 alkanes).  If they haven't worked so far, they're not going to do it.

lenpol7 · Answer

First try (soap &) Water!!! 
If that doesn't work, try an alcohol (e.g. beer or wine cheapest) 
Or surgical spirit, or turpentine. 
It that doesn't work , try Acetone(Propanone) , which is a very good solvent for organic glues and adhesives.

None of these solvents will react with the metal.

However,  you can try a mineral (Sulphuric/Hydrochloric/Nitric)acid, or alkali, but be careful, they can dissolve the metal, and  'burn' your hands.

vinny · Answer

Hi Robert. Residue, not sure, Will leave it in acetone for a few days and see

Robert J · Answer

Soaking in acetone for a few days should remove any type of glue residue; don't expect it to work instantly.

Are you sure it is residue?
The coin metal may well have oxidised or tarnished more over time where it was not sealed from air by the paint/glue, so the mark may actually be a cleaner area.

billrussell42 · Answer

one of those chemicals should work, but you have to rub gently with a soft cloth. Just soaking won't work. goof-off would be the first I'd try.

How to remove glue / adhesive residue from metal?

5 Answers