Scanning slabs has been an enigma of mine. I've never had any success doing it but that may be the printer/scanner that I have. It's one of the reasons why I bought a camera.
You have presented two problems. First, why do you wish to scan a slab? The only thing we care about it the coin within. :thumb: The reason the coin is blurry is because you are using a flatbed scanner whose focus in on objects flat against the glass bed of the scanner. Your coin is lifted a few millimeters above the surface and due also in part to reflection, but moreso being above the range of focus of the optics, your coin will turn out blurry as your example shows. You can try the tricks Doug and T$ suggested in this thread but with a slab you will likely still have many issues with reflection. Scanning coins
I've had the same results green. I never get good scans no matter what I do. I have little luck when I photograph them either, but probably need to work on my technique. It's been awhile since I've attempted to photograph a slabbed coin, but maybe I'll get one out and give it another shot. Bruce
Then I suspect the problem is the scanner itself, not the method. If you scan an object flat on the glass is it in focus ? I suspect not. Yeah I know, but those pics I posted in that other thread, they were scanned through Air-Tites. Pretty much the same as a slab and there is no glare. And they are in focus and they do show luster and color. The tricks work just fine - if you have a good scanner. If you don't, nothing is going to help you.
It is indeed the scanner Doug. Nothing works for me. Like I said earlier, scans of slabs for me are an enigma, but your "tricks" and advice helped me immensely for scanning raw coins. But, since I got's the camera, I don't need (use) the scanner no mo.
Just so the OP knows one needn't rely on pricey high-end equipment, I'd like to add that patience learning to use the tools at ones disposal, even on low budgets or with otherwise inferior instruments can deliver exceptional results. Assembling the advice and techniques (tricks) of others along the way makes life easier. Knowing when to apply them to achieve the best results shows experience and expertise. :thumb:
