If you're using Outlook 2010, go to 'file' in the top left hand corner of your inbox and click - an option to 'set up automatic replies' should appear. You select when you want to send the replies and what to say. You can also set different responses for people inside your organisation (e.g., other colleagues) and external contacts.
If you're using the Hotmail form of Outlook, in the top right corner there is a tyre-like icon. Click this, then select 'options' and again, you can choose 'sending automated holiday replies'.
I hope that's some help!

Not sure about silver, but soaking in Coca Cola is meant to work on copper coins to restore the shine.