I think they were lacquer coated. I found an antique site. They recommended soaking in acetone and then cleaning them. Then soak in vinegar and salt. Bake at 450.
It worked to some extent. I may not have baked them long enough. Now I will just let them sit out in the salt air for a while. I was keeping them in a safe with a Golden Rod, so there was little humidity.


Great-Great Grandson of D.M. Lefever
www.lefevercollectors.com