Tools of the Modern Numismatic Trade

The most crucial tool for coin collectors is undoubtedly a magnifier lens. Every collector should possess at least one, as it plays a vital role in the examination of coins.

A magnifier's rating indicates the increase in size of the image. A 1-power magnifier displays a correctly sized image, while a 10X magnifier shows the image 10 times larger than normal, with "X" denoting "times."

Never should a coin be examined solely with the unaided eye, whether you're buying or selling. Seasoned collectors often sport a magnifier hanging from a lanyard around their necks. When investing in a magnifier, opt for glass lenses over plastic, as the former tends to be more durable, lasting a lifetime. Personally, I use a 14X lens purchased in 1967 that remains scratch-free despite numerous trips to the floor.

For collectors, having a low-power lens for observing multiple coins and a stronger lens for scrutinizing specific details is essential. A low-power lens typically allows you to view the entire coin, while a higher-powered one might focus on smaller details, like the date.

A magnifier unveils more details, proving invaluable when inspecting coins suspected of being counterfeits, altered, or doctored. Through magnification, collectors can discern flaws that may not be apparent to the naked eye. Over the years, seemingly pristine coins have been revealed, under magnification, to have undergone buffing, polishing, or even sandblasting to achieve a bright finish.

In my past authentication work, having access to a stereomicroscope proved invaluable, enabling me to take thousands of pictures and conduct thorough research. If possible, a good stereomicroscope becomes an indispensable tool for authentication purposes. However, it's essential to choose one with a 20X to 40X range, as scopes exceeding 60X may identify issues with nearly every coin.

When using a strong hand lens or microscope, adjusting the coin's angle to catch light from different angles is crucial. This technique reveals common problems like light or reflection doubling, caused by light bouncing off shiny coins. Additionally, it helps spot defects, doctoring, or even hub doubling, which can, in some instances, enhance a coin's value. Placing the coin on an inverted plastic cup when using a microscope minimizes handling and allows easy rotation.

Plastic coin tongs with jaws that minimally contact the coin's edge are essential for safely handling coins. Additionally, a scale proves invaluable for collectors, providing more information than cutting or scratching a coin. A good practice is to weigh each coin before adding it to your collection, as this can quickly identify blatant counterfeit coins.

For cataloging your collection, various software options are available, and some can even connect to pricing sources. Digital cameras can be used to store images of your coins. Alternatively, a word processor with search capabilities can serve this purpose.

A sturdy stapler is a must, especially when working with cardboard 2x2 holders. Exercise caution to keep staples as far away as possible from the coin to prevent damage. Needle nose pliers are handy for flattening staple legs, minimizing harm to other coins.

An inexpensive protractor proves useful, particularly when encountering a coin with the reverse rotated out of its normal position. A good light source is essential; a goose-neck or swing-arm lamp is highly recommended. Metal detectors, while sometimes touted as coin collecting tools, often recover corroded coins with little collector value.

In conclusion, assembling a comprehensive set of tools ensures that coin collectors can observe, authenticate, and catalog their collections with precision and care. Each tool serves a specific purpose, contributing to a collector's ability to discern the unique characteristics and value of each coin in their possession.