Options
Coin shop lighting preferences
KensCoins2287
Posts: 166 ✭✭✭✭
I am an electrician by trade and have been asked to update the lighting at my local coin shop. As I thought about it, I don’t think I’ve ever been in a coin shop that had really good lighting. Have you been in a shop that really had excellent lighting? What type lighting do you prefer? I know incandescent is preferred for grading, but there is going to need to be some type of overhead lighting too (which is all most all LED anymore). I guess I’m just looking for any ideas/suggestions. Thanks!
1
Comments
Good lighting is bad for business. I have to take off 2-3 points at the LCS. There should be no fluorescent lights, the true white light LED's would be the best IMO.
hybrid ok? boring blue fluorescent overhead, but specially reserved outlets for led lamps? or maybe the owner can suggest locations for canisters?
I have not been to a coin shop with great lighting. But, I have been involved with lighting projects for schools, universities and art galleries. I'd suggest 4000K or 5000K LED lighting for good color rendition. There may be others with more expertise than me, so I hope they join in.
Since you're an electrician, do you have any acquaintances/colleagues who are lighting designers? They might be able to provide better input.
Rocking my "shiny-object-syndrome"!!!
Have enough light for the cameras to pick out someone palming and pocketing a coin. I would look at what the owner wants for security lighting. Bright light sometimes deters thief’s, some thieves thrive in dim lit dark corners of rooms. Then let the shop owner decide on case lights and viewing lamps.
Ken, I think the best lighting for the business overall is a kind of bright and cheery feel. As @Eric_Babula suggests, try something about 4400K in the LED for the overall space, and try not to leave areas unlit. My opinion. There could be reasons for shading however, in between spaces.
As far as "for the coins", I think we all know it's going to take a spot lamp or lighting setup to get the right feel. This will get tricky depending on displays, etc., but using a more directed reflector from overhead, with bulbs directly over the counters or viewing areas will help.
My 2c ...
“We are only their care-takers,” he posed, “if we take good care of them, then centuries from now they may still be here … ”
Todd - BHNC #242
The daylight curly bulbs work best for me hands down.
Thanks for the input guys! I’ll post an update when we get it completed!
A good thing to put in my pile of um knowledge 😌
I highly recommend the squeezy mustard containers, not the glass jars. Oh wait, I misread the OP's request as regarding lighting for "coin shows" instead of "coin shops".
Now listen boy, I'm tryin' to teach you sumthin' . . . . that ain't an optical illusion, it only looks like an optical illusion.
My mind reader refuses to charge me. . . . . . .
100 watt lamp viewing area.