Help buying a loupe

sliderider

So I've reached a point in my collecting where I really need a loupe to improve my grading skills. Is there such a thing as a 'recommended' loupe? What magnification should I use? What magnification do the big name grading services use? Where do I find a list of qualifiers for the highest grades??

fcloud

The pros use a 5x for grading. Whan you purchase one make sure it doesn't distort. My favorite is an old 55mm f1.4 camera lens off my old 35mm camera. I use it backwards and it works great. I don't take it to coins stores or shows, but at home it is all I use! I have a 5x I take along to shows along with a doublet (20x and 30x) for checking close details.

If you have a local dealer, ask what he or she uses. There is a good chance that dealer will sell what they like.

Good luck!

mrcommem

I use a Zeiss D36. It has two lenses, a 3x and a 6x. The two lenses can be used together to make 9x. Super clarity and sharpness from edge to edge. One of the best German optics companies for decades. I picked mine up on e-bay for about $60. They are cheap but the optics are the best.

Cameonut

I also use a Zeiss D36.

But I have also been looking for a similar Eschenbach loupe - some members here prefer those.

Datentype

For what you need, a Bausch & Lomb 5X is the ticket - $15 done deal.

mas3387

<< <i>For what you need, a Bausch & Lomb 5X is the ticket - $15 done deal. >>



My exact words, A pretty small investment and a good eye is about all you will need.

foodude

A 5x Eschenbach loupe. There is no substitute. They cost about $60-$70.