microscope is an important tool because it allows us to see things that are too small to see with the naked eye. This is important for many reasons, including understanding how the world works on a small scale, studying cells and microorganisms, looking for defects in manufactured products, and studying coins.
Coin collectors need a good microscope to inspect their coins for defects and to determine the coin’s grade. A good microscope will allow the collector to see all the features of the coin, including the date, mint mark, and other details. This can be helpful in determining the value of a coin, as well as in identifying counterfeit coins. In this article, we will help you choose the best coin microscope
Contents
7 Best Microscope for Coins Reviewed
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- Elikliv EDM201 — Best Overall
- LIMINK LM700 — Premium Choice
- Plugable USB Digital Microscope — Great value
- Celestron - 5 MP Digital Microscope Pro – Good rating by coin collectors
- ANNLOV 4.3-inch
- Dcorn 4.3-inch LCD
- Dcorn 7-inch LCD
- Dcorn 10-inch LCD
1. Elikliv EDM 201
- 【CMOS Upgraded Version】The Elikliv 2022 upgraded digital microscope is embedded with a large 16 MP backlit CMOS sensor, which greatly improves light sensitivity and noise control. 1300X magnification allows clear viewing of plant and animal specimens, electronics repairing, collection checking and coins observing.
The microscope also features a 16MP backlit CMOS sensor that allows you to take clear photos and videos of samples. The microscope comes with an extension tube that allows you to view entire coins.
- Great image quality;
- Price performance ratio;
- Comes with an extension tube for coins.
- You may need to use an external light source in order to get a good image.
Specifications
- Brand: Elikliv
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 10-1300
- Screen Size: 7″ 16MP LCD Display
- Real Angle of View: 90.0 degrees
2. LIMINK LM700
- ✔️2022 CMOS Upgrade: LIMINK innovatively integrates a large 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor into a digital microscope for the first time. Compared to other products significantly improve the light sensitivity and noise control, 1200X Magnification allowing to see plant and animal tissues clearly. Time to say goodbye to toy microscopes!
The included 7-inch rotating screen is a great way to view your finds, and the HDMI output makes it easy to connect it to your TV or computer for even more detailed viewing. The microscope also comes with a handy remote control, making it easy to zoom in and out and adjust settings from a distance.
One of the best features of the LIMINK LM700 coins microscope is its two-touch quick-darkening technology, which makes it easy to adjust the brightness of the screen to suit your needs. The microscope also comes with a built-in, replaceable battery, making it ideal for use in the field. Overall, the LIMINK LM700 coin microscope with a screen is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality and versatile microscope.
- Great image quality;
- Wide range of application scenarios;
- Powerful zoom.
- The eyepieces are not detachable.
Specifications
- Brand: L LIMINK
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 1200
- Screen Size: 7″, 16 MP
3. Plugable USB Digital Microscope
- Hobby Focused: Explore the microscopic world with ease; ideal for students, collectors, and testers. Use as an electronics microscope, soldering microscope, USB coin microscope, and more. Capture single images, time-lapse, and video.
It’s a great choice for anyone who’s looking for a cheap coin collector microscope USB that’s still capable of doing a great job. It’s very easy to use, and it comes with a great software package that makes it very easy to get started. The Plugable USB Digital Microscope is an excellent tool for students, collectors, testers, and anyone else interested in exploring the microscopic world. This coin microscope camera can provide up to 250x magnification, making it perfect for detailed observations.
The integrated LED halo light with brightness adjustment control ensures that you always have a clear view, while the flexible arm with an observation pad makes it easy to take measurements or use the microscope as a handheld tool. The Plugable USB Digital Microscope also comes with a 2-year limited part and labor warranty, making it a great investment for those looking for a good microscope.
- Very easy to set up, use, and take down;
- Affordable price;
- 2-year warranty;
- The field of view is not very large.
Specifications
- Brand: Plugable
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 250
- High Definiyion: 2 MP
4. The Celestron – 5 MP Digital Microscope Pro
- TRUE 5 MEGAPIXEL SENSOR: Capture and save high resolution images and videos of your specimens.
- It is easy to use;
- Affordable price;
- 5MP sensor.
- Difficult to connect.
Specifications
- Brand: Celestron
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 20-200
- High Definiyion: 5 MP
5. ANNLOV 4.3-inch
- 50X-1000X DIGITAL MAGNIFICATION: ANNLOV microscopio digital provides 50X-1000X magnifications (magnification corresponds to monitor size), allowing you to view the smallest details of specimens clearly such as plants,coins, diamonds,soldering etc,it's great tool for kids
It comes with an attached 4.3-inch LCD screen that gives you a clear image of your specimen and eliminates the need to plug it into a laptop or phone. This microscope has 8 LED lights. The brightness is adjustable. The LED lights can be turned off when not needed.
This makes it very convenient for coin viewers. Images and videos of this microscope are 720P HD. The camera is easy to use, and the light brightness can be easily adjusted with the dial. It is also small and compact, making it easy to take with you on hikes or other outdoor adventures. It can be connected to a computer or TV.
- Good LCD display;
- 8 LED lights;
- The microscope is powered by a USB cable.
- The stand is not included;
- The software CD that comes with the microscope is not compatible with Mac computers.
Specifications
- Brand: ANNLOV
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 50X-1000X
- Resolution: 2MP/720P
- LCD DISPLAY: 4.3 inch
6. Dcorn 4.3-inch LCD
- Amazing10X-1000X Magnification: Dcorn LCD microscope has a magnification range of 10X to 1000X, and you can view it directly on its screen or via a USB cable connected to a PC. The degree of magnification corresponds to the size of the monitor, ensuring that even the smallest details of the object being examined are clearly visible.
The microscope also has a built-in light that makes it easy to see your specimens in low light conditions.
While it may not be able to see microscopic organisms, it’s great for everyday use. The microscope is powered by a USB cable and comes with a carrying case. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to see things up close.
The characteristics of this microscope are enough for a collector of coins and stamps. An excellent solution for numismatists.
- Easy to use;
- Good image quality;
- Affordable price.
- The software is not very user-friendly;
- The microscope is not very durable.
Specifications
- Brand: Dcorn
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 10X-1000X
- Capture resolution: 3M, 2M, 1.3M
- LCD DISPLAY: 4.3 inch
7. Dcorn 7-inch LCD
- Amazing 10X-1200X Magnification: Dcorn LCD microscope allows to zoom in and observe the metal texture of coins, the veins of leaves, the lines of the skin, and the electronic components of the circuit board in the range of 10X to 1200X magnification. This allows you to experience the wonders of a microscopic world. However, please note that the actual magnification may vary depending on the distance between the lens and the observation object, as well as the size of the screen being used.
The microscope can be used to view coin images in a variety of different ways, and it can also be used to view images in a variety of different sizes. The 7-inch HD LCD Display is also a great feature, as it allows you to view the clear details of tiny objects in 1080P or 720P resolution.
Additionally, the side lights design and the ability to connect to a PC for a larger view make this microscope an excellent option for those who want to see the clearest details of objects in various environments.
- Clear, high-resolution images ;
- Compact;
- Easy to use.
- Image quality is not as good as a professional microscope;
- Microscope is not very durable.
Specifications
- Brand: Dcorn
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 50-1200X
- Resolution: 12MP 1080P
- LCD DISPLAY: 7 inch
- Angle of View: 90 Degrees
8. Dcorn 10-inch LCD
- Large 10-inch display: Compared with the 7-inch screen, Dcorn 10 inch screen provides you with 43% more viewing field of vision. You can realize the effect of multiple people watching at the same time without connecting to a computer. The screen resolution is up to 614k pixels (1024 * 600), and you will see vivid and real pictures clearly. A larger screen will effectively prevent eye fatigue, and you will get a wonderful and comfortable viewing experience.
The Dcorn LCD digital microscope is a great gift for any coin collector. It has a large 10-inch screen that provides 43% more viewing area than other microscopes. With a resolution of 614k pixels (1024 * 600), it produces clear, vivid images. The microscope also has a 16MP camera with precise focus, colors that are converted to look more realistic, and the ability to magnify objects up to 1500X. It is equipped with an extension tube which allows more coins to enter the field of view, and also has a sturdy, moderately weighted metal bracket and base which minimizes shaking and increases durability.
Dcron video microscope supports taking pictures and videos. It has a resolution of 1920*1080 and can shoot up to 16MP photos. The design of 10 adjustable LED lights ensures that every detail of the object is illuminated.
The infrared remote control included with the USB microscope allows you to take photos, and videos, zoom in and out, and more without having to press any buttons on the microscope, which avoids any potential for screen shaking. Whether you’re observing or recording, you’ll always get a clear and stable picture. The adjustable stand and screen let you find the most comfortable viewing angle to prevent eye fatigue, and the extension tube allows for a larger view and more operating space.
- Clear, high-resolution images ;
- Compact;
- Easy to use.
- Image quality is not as good as a professional microscope.
Specifications
- Brand: Dcorn
- Light Source Type: LED
- Magnification: 10-1500X
- Resolution: 16MP, 1080P
- LCD DISPLAY: 10 inch
- Angle of View: 360 degrees
Why Do Coin Collectors Need Microscopes?
Microscopes can help coin collectors identify certain characteristics on a coin that might not be visible to the naked eye or by magnifier for coins. For example, a microscope can help a collector identify mint marks, die varieties, and other small details that can help determine the value of a coin.
- The main reasons a numismatist might need a good microscope are to determine:
- quality, condition, and value of the coin;
- the authenticity of the coin;
- the material of the coin;
- country and origin of the coin;
- errors and defects of the coin.
Microscope Buyer’s Guide
There are many different types of microscopes available on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one to choose. This buyer’s guide will help you choose the right microscope for your needs.
Types of microscopes
There are two main types of microscopes: compound and stereo. Each type has its pros and cons. Compound microscopes are the most popular type of microscope for coin collectors. They use two lenses to magnify objects, and they can be used to view objects at high magnifications.
It is useful when you need to see the smallest details. Stereo microscopes are less popular for coin collectors, but they can be useful for viewing larger objects and coins. Stereo microscopes use a single lens to magnify objects, and they do not provide as much magnification as compound microscopes. However, stereo microscopes can make a three-dimensional image.
Magnification
The magnification of a microscope is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a microscope. Digital microscopes for coins are available with a variety of different magnifications, and you will need to choose a microscope with a magnification that is appropriate for your needs.
For most coin collectors, a magnification of 10x to 40x is sufficient. If you need to view very small details, such as mint marks, you may need a microscope with a higher magnification.
Table comparing magnification and camera parameters
| Microscope brand | Magnification | Camera |
| Elikliv EDM201 | 10X-1300X | 16 MP |
| LIMINK LM700 | 1200X | 16 MP |
| Plugable USB Digital Microscope | 250Х | 2 MP |
| Celestron – 5 MP Digital Microscope Pro | 2Х-200Х | 5 MP |
| ANNLOV 4.3-inch | 50X-1000X | 2 MP |
| Dcorn 4.3-inch LCD | 10X-1000X | – |
| Dcorn 7-inch LCD | 50X-1200X | 12 MP |
| Dcorn 10-inch LCD | 10X-1500X | 16 MP |
Lens quality
The quality of the microscope’s lenses is another important factor to consider. The lenses of a microscope determine how clear the image of an object will be. Higher-quality lenses will provide a clearer image than lower-quality lenses. When choosing a microscope, be sure to choose a model with high-quality lenses.
Lighting
Most microscopes use an incandescent light bulb to illuminate objects. However, some microscopes use a more advanced type of lighting, such as LED lighting. LED lighting is more energy-efficient than incandescent lighting, and it provides a more even light source. When choosing a microscope, be sure to choose a model with the type of lighting that is best for your needs.
Price
The price of a microscope is another important factor to consider. Microscopes sell for a wide variety of prices, and you need to choose a model that fits your budget and objectives. You can find a microscope for as little as $30, but you will get what you pay for. A good quality microscope can cost you several hundred dollars.
Microscopes FAQ
Beginning coin collectors often have questions when choosing a coin microscope. Here we give answers to the most popular ones.
How do I clean my microscope?
To clean your microscope, first, remove any specimen that may be in the microscope stage. Then, using a soft, lint-free cloth, wipe away any dust or debris from the stage, lenses, and other parts of the microscope. If there is a more stubborn build-up of dirt or grime, you can use a mild soap and water solution to gently clean the microscope. Be sure to dry the microscope thoroughly before using it again.
Can I use a microscope with my glasses on?
It is possible to use a microscope with glasses on, although it may be difficult to see the entire image. It is recommended to use contact lenses when using a microscope.
Do beginners need a USB coin microscope?
No, beginners do not need a coin microscope. However, a coin microscope can be a useful tool for beginners to have in their toolkit, as it can help them to more easily identify coins.
What do coin collectors use to look at coins?
A coin collector will use a magnifying glass and microscope to look at coins.
How do you examine a coin?
The best magnifier for coins is going to be a microscope that allows you to easily distinguish mint markings, dates and other distinguishing factors about a coin you are viewing. The best coin microscope will also likely have other useful features such as LED lighting and the correct min 5-10x magnification levels.
Conclusion
As a coin collector, you know that a good microscope is an important tool. With a microscope, you can examine your coins in great detail, and spot any problems that may need to be addressed. A good microscope will allow you to see all the features of your coins, including the date, mint mark, and other important details.
Table comparing the characteristics of microscopes for coin collectors
[table id=8 /]You can use a microscope to check for wear, damage, or other problems. A microscope can also be used to examine the condition of your coins. You can look for scratches, nicks, or other imperfections. By examining your coins under a microscope, you can ensure that they are in the best possible condition.
Also read:
- How to Find Tiny Meteorites Under a Microscope: An Easy Guide to Microscopic Exploration
- Discover What Plasma Looks Like Under a Microscope!
- What Does Epithelial Tissue Look Like Under a Microscope? Uncover the Secrets with a Microscope!
- Uncover the Fascinating Details of How Big the Letter E Microscope Is
- Why Did They Create the Revolutionary Electron Microscope? Unlock the Secrets of Microscopy Today!
References
- Microscope World – https://www.microscopeworld.com/
- Numismatic History at Your Fingertips – https://www.money.org/the-numismatist
- American Numismatic Association – https://www.money.org/
Thank you for your point of view. It was very interesting to compare different coin microscopes to see which is better. I am just getting into numismatics and am starting to plan to buy a microscope. So far I am looking at Elikliv and LIMINK as they have a monitor, which is kind of modern and convenient. In the future I will write a review after purchase and use.