Magnifying glasses and Microscope?

[BronxXpress]

I’d like to ask what power magnification people use, whether for a handheld magnifying glass or a microscope? I use a 16X loupe and wonder if I’m missing too much detail. Any opinions?

[Ray Parkhurst]

I use a 10x stereo microscope. 16x should be more than enough for viewing details.

[OneCent]

I use a 16x Wide Field loupe by H. E. Harris and Co which is great and a 20x-40x-80 Amscope stereo microscope with an older 3 MP Swiftcam SC300 with a SCA-EA03 reducer that I got at a great price. The camera is an upgrade for me and is better than the MD35 that came with the scope. I love the new pics and close up view of the new 2023 P Doubled Die Jefferson Nickels! I hear Ray Parkhurst has some suggestions for a setup for under $400. You should see some of the pictures he has posted!
Enjoy the hunt!

[MintErrors]

I use an AMSCOPE microscope with the 10x, 20x, 40x and 80x ability. Its a trinocular with a 16mp microscope camera to take photos. Typically I stick to 10x or 20x since it is close to what other attributers use. Anything over 20x can help dissect what the issue is, but an attributer may determine that the issue is too minor if higher than 10x magnification is needed.

In my opinion, some times too much magnification can complicate the process. Like anything else, knowing when to see the big picture as well as knowing why to use 40x or 80x is important. It honestly depends on what your looking at whether it's a variety, error or debunking something. Make yourself comfortable with the equipment you use.

[BronxXpress]

Thanks for the responses—some excellent and much appreciated suggestions and advice. I’ll especially heed MintErrors last sentence. I’m not a very hi-tech person, so, as needed, I’ll work my way up to some of the more sophisticated equipment noted. Thanks again.