? on viewing coins

coinrookie

What is the best magnification to use in examining coins. What do PCGS graders use?

kieferscoins

PCGS graders generally do not use magnification. 15-20 seconds to look at your coin and grade it is all.

Cameron Kiefer

merz2

coinrookie
It has been said they don't use magnification unless there is question on autentication or extreme differences in grade opinions.

Cam40

For me its a 10x loupe.PCGS..."magnification?we dont need no stinkin magification!!!!` hehe

kryptonitecomics

From everything I've read the general consensus is that a 5-7X loop is sufficient if you are going to use a loop. I use an 18X so you no I never overgrade!!!!

BNE

I have found a 5x loupe to be sufficient to see the coin "up close and personal."

For double-dies, I often have to use 10X to avoid hallucinations.

Regardless of whether PCGS uses magnification or not, I have come to the conclusion that examining coins with a loupe is essential in determining whether it's worth it to submit a coin for grading.