WTB magnifying glass

Bugs

I would like to buy a magnifying glass of good quality. Any suggestions? Are free standing better than hand held? What magnification will I need? I won't have the opportunity of going to any coin shows so I won't have the need for anything portable.

If you have something for sale, or know of someone/place who does, please send me a PM.

Thank you very much,
~*Bugs*~

nwcs

A good all around lens would be a 5x or 7x triplet lens. You want a triplet because it minimizes the visual distortion. For most situations, a 5 or 7 power is all you need. The ANA sells a bausch and lomb triplet for $45 or so. I like it, it's a good lens. Some people recommend zeiss lenses as they say they have superior optical quality. I have never used one, so I cannot say. Try to avoid high powered lenses, they are better for attribution than for grading. And try to avoid cheap doublets. They'll strain the eyes more.

Mel Blanc

beartracks42

You can find all kinds of magnification devices on ebay. Go to coins and look under supplies. I have a Hastings 10X triplet loupe that works just fine and it came from ebay.

Bugs

Mel and Gary...Thanks for the very useful info...~*Bugs*~