This bell has been outside by the sea for at least 20 years. The owner has chosen to not maintain the polished bronze and allowed the bell to naturally tarnish to this beautiful bronze-y brown. We do recommend some periodic maintenance on all bells. If your bell is outside or in a salty environment, to prevent rust buildup on the clapper wire, periodically rub some oil on the stem and also on the loop the clapper is hanging on. Alternatively, paint the clapper wire and loop with an oil based rust prevention coating. Check every so often to see if you need to re-apply. Fine grade bronze wool (NOT steel wool) can be used to remove surface stains and buildup.