Several metal catalysts were examined for their effectiveness in activating hydrogen peroxide and oxygen as oxidants for conversion of lignin models to benzoquinones. Good yields of quinones were observed when certain heteropolymetallates were used as catalysts in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Oxygen was generally less effective. Oxidation of lignin samples gave 2-3 wt% yields of 2,6-dimethoxybenzoquinone.