Is this mold or ??

[bttreadwell]

Hey guys, just opened an aged tin of McClelland No. 22 and just want to make sure this isn't mold. I think it may simply be crystallization, but want to make sure. It is hard and rough and doesn't come off easy. The tin was dry so I am rehydrating. Thanks for the help.
BT

 

[moses]

Hmm... That looks similar to what went on in a tin of MmC blending perique that I had. My assumption was that the tin lining was corrupted. Tobacco looked fine, so at least there was that. I'd also be interested to hear people's opinions as to the cause of the mystery. Glad it's not just MY tins that are haunted lol

 

[Strike Anywhere]

It's either rust or oils and such from the tobacco that accumulated and dried on the tin. It does not look like mold.

 

[shotime]

does not look like mold

 

[ashdigger]

I've opened several tins that have that. The latest is a tin of Kingfisher that had it. It's definitely not mold.

 

[bttreadwell]

Excellent. I didn't think so, but I'm still learning. Now to get it hydrated a bit! Thanks!

 

[oldmansmoking]

I agree looks like rust or some oils from the tobacco, even if it's mold what's the worst that could happen?

 

[jpmcwjr]

Rust is my guess. Did you re-jar in a glass container?

 

[bttreadwell]

I am going to, just rehydrating a bit first. I just opened it today.

 

[mikestanley]

What year was that tinned? Last two digits of the six digit code on the bottom of the tin.

Mike S.

 

[bttreadwell]

It was 1995. Special open for my birthday and Memorial Day! My first really old VA.

 

[clickklick]

Enjoy it! If the oils are still around, then you should have some decent results rehydrating it. Don't hit it directly with moisture though.
Put it in a bowl and drape a distilled water soaked washcloth (rung out as to not be dripping wet) over the top. Check the tobacco and rewet the cloth a few times throughout the day. After a few days you should be back in business! This is the only method that has ever worked for me in bringing back aged compromised tins, as long as the oils are still present.

 

[bttreadwell]

Thanks for all the tips! It seems to be rehydrating well. Slowly, but we are getting there.

 

[ashdigger]

Bt, look at the cutter top Black Mallory thread and scroll down.... you'll see a similar phenomenon.

 

[bttreadwell]

That looks like it. Thanks!

 

[ophiuchus]

It's just rust. The coating inside the can has been marginally compromised, but the tobacco is fine. Migrate the contents, and toss the can. ::

 

[bttreadwell]

Succes! Got rehydrated and smoking my first bowl. Very nice, I'm pleased. Thanks again for all of your help.