Magnification !!?????

[unclescratch]

Recently found a cent, in poor condition, that looked to be a 1943 from a copper planchet! How to be certain?? (It passed the magnet test O.K.) My neighbor works at a federal fish hatchery, and he invited me to come down to the shop and use his dissecting microscope. WOW! What great magnification. Turned out to be a 1945. Rats!

However, although I never seem to find it discussed, I learned a great way to see my coins up close!!! Makes me wonder what other folks are using. Must be lots of secrets out there! Searching on ebay I have found similar devices described as 'stereo microscopes' and other names. What are you guys/gals using?????

[GrumpyEd]

A good scope is nice for examining coins but for searching I prefer a loupe because it goes faster but if something needs a closer look then I use a scope.

My only scope is an old stereo microscope like you might have used in a school science class. Some folks have very nice scopes and camera setups or scopes with cameras.

[jfines69]

I have a 30X loupe unless I need a closer look or images... Then I use my camera set up... Camera has a bellows attached and I have a couple of different lenses to use!!!

[ray_parkhurst]

I highly recommend a stereo microscope. They are relatively cheap these days. I use a Bausch & Lomb and I can make a recommendation if you are interested.

[jfines69]

I'd go with Rays suggestion... His photography skills are second only to JCuve!!!

[VAB2013]

I'd go with Rays suggestion... His photography skills are second only to JCuve!!!

I'd have to flip a coin on that answer... They are both fantastic photographers!!!

[ray_parkhurst]

Thanks for the photography kudos, but keep in mind the OP is asking about viewing live under magnification, not about photography. The question ends up being whether a stereo microscope, or loupe, or ?? is best way to go. I personally have not used a loupe to view coins at home for nearly 30 years, ever since I got my first stereo microscope. I would lug one around to coin shows if I could, but it's not too practical. Once you use one, you won't go back.

[ray_parkhurst]

Here is an example of the type of scope I use. I don't know if this particular one is in good enough shape to buy, but it is certainly a good price:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bausch-Lomb-Stereo-Zoom-Microscope-0-7-3x-on-A-Stand/162664164164?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649

[Petespockets55]

Here is an example of the type of scope I use. I don't know if this particular one is in good enough shape to buy, but it is certainly a good price:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bausch-Lomb-...19.m1438.l2649

Like the idea of stereo for tired eyes but the magnification seems to be a little on the low side?
Is the .7 - 3x magnification on this one good enough for subtle differences on varieties?

[jfines69]

Ray is correct... I apologize for getting off track but my comment is still true!!!

[ray_parkhurst]

Like the idea of stereo for tired eyes but the magnification seems to be a little on the low side?
Is the .7 - 3x magnification on this one good enough for subtle differences on varieties?

The "pod" sets the magnification range, and the eyepieces (and any auxiliary lenses) set the overall magnification. Most often 10x eyepieces are used, so the overall magnification is 7x-30x.

[Petespockets55]

The "pod" sets the magnification range, and the eyepieces (and any auxiliary lenses) set the overall magnification. Most often 10x eyepieces are used, so the overall magnification is 7x-30x.

Thanks Jim. I was wondering if additional lenses we're possible.