The best method to scope out a coin at a coin show

younique

Using a loupe but wondering if there might be a better or bigger loupe out there, or another method. What's your way of doing things?

mannie gray

First instinct, overall eye appeal...then loupe it if it passes the initial gut check.

ricko

I always brought my loupe.... wore it unabashedly around my neck on a lanyard.... If the coin attracts me, and passes 'in hand' review, then the loupe for details. Cheers, RickO

logger7

A decent magnifier, some of them have point light source; the lighting can be key.

topstuf

Skip

CoinZip

I use my Dino-Lite microscope and Samsung tablet. I can also research with the tablet, both my records and websites.

DollarAfterDollar

General eye appeal followed by loupe followed by led check for hairlines.

ricko

The Dino-lite and a tablet.....what a GREAT idea..... never had those when I went to shows in the NW.... and no shows here.... really good idea.... magnification and information resources at your fingertips... Cheers, RickO

Walkerfan

I wouldn't even think about buying a coin without scoping it with a 10X loupe first. Then I tilt it in hand to see if she has some luster. I look at overall eye appeal and for any distractions. That tells me all I need to know.

steveben

my methods are not much different than those described here...except i would add that i always view the coin at the flattest angle possible from each direction. this is a good way to see putty, hairlines, or other weird discolorations.

also...always look at the coin edge (as much as possible, since some are obscured by holders). the coin's edge tells a story about the coin's condition as well.

MrEureka

One additional tip. Usually, youll get a better look at a coin under a lamp. Sometimes, it's better without a lamp. So when in doubt, try both ways.

1630Boston

@steveben I often neglect the coins edge for some reason, will have to pay more attention, thanks

coindeuce

I only see an advantage to the Dino-Lite tethered to a pad or tablet for having a preliminary look at coin at an unattended table. Can't view the reverse. If the table is attended and the dealer offers an in hand inspection, a low power loupe and a good light source are sufficient.

topstuf

Aren't there "ways" to know which coins to buy without even LOOKING at them?

roadrunner

@topstuf said:
Aren't there "ways" to know which coins to buy without even LOOKING at them?

Yes. Sometimes the price is too good to pass up, even if low end or generic quality. Many here have bought coins sight-unseen or at worst based on photographs only. Some of my best deals came that way. "Grading" is just another way of saying "probabilities."