Has anyone here used stacked lenses for extreme closeups? Need some advice.
OnWithTheHunt
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Want to get some good closeups of some of my many RPMs. I'm using some real vintage equipment with my Nikon D7000, a 105mm F4 macro with an extension ring coupled with a 55 mm F3.5 macro, both wide open. Fortunately, the camera allows me to meter in manual mode with the older lenses. Have been playing around for a while today, but I can't get the coin in focus unless the 55 is almost touching the coin, which restricts the amount of light. Is this just the way it is, or is there something I'm not doing? Here are my best results so far. 
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Extensions rings are fine with a high-quality macro lens.
Be very careful you don't end up scratching your lens by getting too close to the coin. The lens is probably worth more than many of the coins you will want to photograph.
Thanks. Believe me, I'm being careful. I'm wondering if there is anything I can do, using my current set up, to increase the lens to coin distance.
I did some extreme close up experiments with coin photography about 20 years ago. I got some good results but stopped doing it because I had to get so close to the coins. I didn't want to risk damaging expensive lenses.
https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/1011699/more-coin-photo-systems-available
http://www.macrocoins.com/
Honestly, you need to find a quality 100 mm macro lens for a good working distance for coins. The tubes will work on the 100 to get you closer if needed.
The depth of field is so small at that magnification. That may be why nothing is in focus.
I use a bellows system with an enlarging lens. Heres what I'm able to get.
Thanks to all for your comments. What I am gathering, especially from 291fifth, is that I am using the stacked lens technique properly, and there is no way of increasing the lens to coin distance to improve lighting. If I am incorrect, please let me know. Meanwhile, I will continue to experiment, carefully. BTW, the lenses are all Nikkors, old but of good quality.
Perhaps moving the camera farther from subject (thus to allow more toward axis lighting) suggest you attempt to use a longer focal-length lens, like a 200mm with the closeup ring(s).
Hello, Im a newly approved member and I use a USB microscope to get really close to coins. The one I use is named "Plugable USB 2.0 Digital Microscope with Flexible Arm Observation Stand" from Amazon. it isnt great but its cheap, $34.95.
here is a sample screen shot I just took
I hope this helps.
Nice pix. Thanks. And Welcome.
Yup, I loves my usb microscope with my S8+. Peace Roy
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Looks like we have a similar outfit. I have the old 105mm Micro-Nikkor manual lens, bought some cheapo extension tubes and they do OK for closeups and tiny coins like trimes and such.
closeup of the date on my RPD trade dollar
A lens (or lens combination) with greater focal length will permit a longer working distance. Note - every glass to air interface decreases contrast, so try to minimize the number of lenses used.