Magnifying glasses for coins – Buying guide & Comparison
If you are a passionate coins collector, chances are you are looking for the best magnifying glass for coin collecting available. However, as you know, reading reviews on this topic is an activity that not many find pleasure in. Consequently, we have decided to help you out by analyzing the market and drawing the necessary conclusions. As a result, we consider that the Carson LumiLoupe 5x LL-88 is the product that you should consider. This device has a magnification power of 5x and a 2.5-inch diameter lens. Moreover, the product is very lightweight (it only weighs 6,7 ounces) and it is ideal for inspecting coins and stamps in low vision. What is more, this unit is lighted with 6 LED lights that allow the user to switch between three distinct brightness levels. If the Carson LumiLoupe 5x LL-88 is out of stock, we recommend that you check out the Carson LumiLoupe Series (LLx10).
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
This device has a 5x magnification power and a 2.5-inch diameter lens that should allow you to observe all types of coins no matter their size. It also comes with six ultra-bright LED lights that have three levels of brightness so you can inspect coins even in the dark.
The powerful LEDs can wash out all the details of the coin, customers do not advise you use this feature when examining coins.
This is a versatile product that has the primary purpose of examining coins but can also be used by elderly people to read the newspaper or a book. You may even use it to examine stamps and documents.
2nd Best
This powerful model comes with a 1.0-inch diameter lens that has a magnification power of 10x. This feature will allow you to examine coins and other objects in great detail. It weighs only 1.4 ounces and the portable design will make it easy to store and transport.
There is a bit of spherical aberration noticeable beyond the optical center which can affect the quality of the image you are observing.
Customers love this unit for the value it offers and its ease of use. The excellent magnification power combined with the durable body make it a product that is bound to satisfy the expectations of any collector.
Also To Consider
If affordability is on your mind, you can’t go wrong with this cool looking unit. It features a shatterproof acrylic construction with 2x power pre-focused lens with a viewing area of 2.5 inches. It also comes with a free microfiber cloth pouch for proper storage.
Some customers felt that the magnification of this product is not enough, especially when inspecting small coins.
This might be one of the cheapest options on our list, but it still manages to offer similar performance to more expensive models. Customers seem to love the design and the fact that it’s portable and easy to use.
Finding a reliable magnifying glass for viewing coins is a process that requires plenty of attention and a keen eye for significant details. To help you out, we have taken it upon yourself to compile a list of crucial features that one should consider before settling for an item in this line of products. So, read ahead and make sure that you pick accordingly.
Type of lens
One of the first aspects that all coin collectors should pay attention to before they go online to purchase a product of this kind is the type of lens the unit comes outfitted with.
When it comes to the lens type, you should know that there are models that not all magnifying glasses come fitted with the same kind of lens. In fact, you can opt for products with multiple aligned acrylic lenses, products that have pre-focused dual lenses, and so on.
Still, no matter the kind of product that you choose, you should know that it is prudent that you settle for a unit that has had all its optic surfaces covered with a scratch resistant substance. The main advantage of these products is that they are prone to last an extended period of time, as they are not likely to become deteriorated and to make it difficult to successfully examine coins with them.
Likewise, while we are at it, it seems appropriate to remind you to keep an eye on the dimension of the lens that the product includes. Therefore, if you are interested in a product that will enable you to analyze coins that are small in dimensions, a unit with a 1-inch diameter should suffice.
Still, if you are interested in a larger unit that can give you a better look at the coin, we recommend that you invest in a product with a lens diameter between two inches and 3.25 inches.
Design
If you take a good look at the reviews of magnifying glasses for viewing coins that you can find online, the first aspect that is likely to catch your interest is the product’s design. As expected, this feature is worth your while as it might help you decide what item to pick.
From this point of view, all interested buyers can choose between the hand-held design and the self-standing units. While the first models are seen as obsolete by many, you should know that they are very versatile and practical, as they allow the user to have an overall image of a coin. Likewise, a person can also compare two coins at the same time while using such a product.
On the other hand, the self-standing models usually come supplied with plenty of new functions that the old design does not match. For instance, some of these items have pre-focused lenses that can be of help if you are a beginner in the art of coin analysis. Also, most of these devices feature LED illumination, a feature that is also quite practical.
Weight and magnification
Last but surely not least, the unit’s weight and its magnification ratio should also be considered. According to the specialists, if you want to pick the best coin magnifying glass, you should select a unit that is lightweight and easy to maneuver. This is expressly important if you are set on ordering a feasible hand-held unit. When it comes to the newer design, this aspect is not that important.
Moreover, before you go online and order the first model that you see up for sale, take a few extra moments to consider the products magnification. Usually, a 5x or a 7x ratio is considered sufficient by professional coin collectors.
5 Best Magnifying Glasses for Coins (Reviews) in 2024
If you are still not sure on what product to select, we have put together a list of high-quality models that you should necessarily consider before you make a decision. So, don’t waste any more time, start reading and select that one you like best.
Contents
1. Carson 5x LumiLoupe Ultra LED Lighted Stand Magnifier Loup
With a great price to value ratio and numerous positive reviews and feedback comments from current users, the 5x LL-88 model should necessarily be of interest to you. This device comes provided with plenty of features that you are likely to find appealing.
For example, according to its manufacturer, the unit features multiple aligned acrylic lenses with a 5x power of magnification and a lens diameter of 2.5 inches. As a plus, the unit also includes no less than 6 LED lights that you can use to have a clearer and crisper view of the coin that you are observing.
Moreover, this product weighs 6.7 ounces and it measures 5.5×3.62×1.37 inches. Therefore, you can use it to examine coins of all dimensions. To function correctly, the product requires three AAA batteries that are not included in the price and that need to be purchased independently.
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2. Carson 10x LumiLoupe Stand Magnifier Loupe
Another product that you should consider is the LLx10 model developed by the same manufacturer. This item comes supplied with a pre-focused 1.0-inch lens that you can use while viewing items up close. The product also incorporates a 10x power stand magnifier that includes a see-through acrylic base that will supply you with plenty of light.
The product is considered a good investment for all those that intend to utilize it for various purposes such as coin analysis, watchmaking, geology, biology, electronics, and so on. The model has the following dimensions 2.0x 2.0 x 1.75 inches and it weighs 1.4 ounces.
The model is covered by a lifetime warranty, a reason why you should not worry about it breaking easily and needing to invest in a new product. Current users of the model have said that the item has a good power of magnification, that it has a sturdy construction, and that it is great for coin collecting enthusiasts.
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3. Carson 2x LumiDome Polished Ball Loupe with 75mm Base
If you are interested in a cool looking unit that is also quite feasible, check out the LD-75 model developed by the same manufacturer, Carson LumiDome. The product has an eye-catching acrylic construction that is shatterproof as well as a 2x magnifying lens that covers a viewing area of 2.5 inches.
The model can be used when analyzing coins, when viewing miniatures, stamps, and when reading. Because of its delicate base, the model comes shipped with an additional microfiber cloth pouch that you can utilize to store product in between uses. Likewise, this item is covered by a limited lifetime warranty
According to the product’s previous buyers, this magnifying glass is very easy to manage, because it features a recessed center that protects it from being scratched. Even more so, the etched and faceted sides that the model includes are said to provide a good grip that any user will highly appreciate
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4. Dreame LED Lighted Illuminated Jewelers Eye Loupe
A best seller in this line of products, this model produced by Dreame is both cost-efficient and effortless to maneuver. As a plus, this is a pocket-sized magnifying glass that is easy to carry around and use whenever you need to.
The model features a dual design that comprises two distinct lenses. The main lens has a diameter of 30x22mm, while the second one measures 60x12mm. The product was manufactured using durable aluminum and a plastic housing, reason why it is very light and effortless to carry with you when on the go. If you decide to purchase this model, you should know that the manufacturer also includes a small case that is meant to protect the magnifying glass when not used.
Another mentionable feature of this item is its foldable design. Moreover, this unit has received great reviews from its previous purchasers. Most of them have said that this model is worth the money, especially because of its maneuverability.
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5. Carson MagniView Handheld 2x Magnifier with 4.5x Spot Lens
If you are fond of classical looking magnifying glasses and you are not interested in paying a lot of money in order to buy one, the Carson MagniView 2x DS-36 is the model for you. This device is scratch resistant and it has a 4.5x power that will allow you to use it for a variety of purposes.
When it comes to the product’s technical details, all interested buyers should remember that this lens is 3.25 inches in diameter and that it contains a thumb groove, often described as ergonomic that is placed on the product’s handle. The main purpose of the groove is to add more stability and comfort to the item.
As a plus, a built-in rim is said to protect the unit from scratches and dust accumulation. In an attempt to make sure that all its customers are satisfied with the purchase, the item is covered by a lifetime limited warranty
Bibliography:
1) What optical power do you use for coin magnifier?
2) The magnifier a coin collector’s most important tool
3) What do you need to become a coin collector
