I have a couple of loupes. Mostly 10-20 dollars. I had a nice 5x with a light, but the light burnt out. I also have a 60-100X with a light (only used it once and that was in looking at the 1942 2 over 1). Anyhow I'm sick of going to the coin shows and fishing in my pocket for my loupe and having to pull all of the change and junk out to get it. My ideal loupe would be one attached to a necklace. Preferably silver, with a silver necklace. I think a 7X would be perfect, and it has to have a light. I made a big mistake on an old draped bust half I picked up when I didn't have my light on me. I got out in the sunlight and there was a gash that I missed. One attached to a necklace would be awesome. Otherwise I would prefer a magnifying glass with a light source. Would greatly appreciate if someone could point me the right direction. ~Jason
This is the trusty magnifying glass w/ light I use http://www.seeitbigger.com/UltraOptix_LED_Lighted_7x_Aspheric_Round_Magnifier_p/uhh-sv2lpled.htm If you can't find the loupe I would suggest this.
Almost all have a necklace/strap/chain loop or hole. The real consideration when buying a loupe is your eyes. If you have good eyes, and see well in subdued light, then I would recommend this loupe ( although ) they have higher and lower magnification. They are extremely well constructed. http://www.amazon.com/BelOMO-Triplet-Loupe-Folding-Magnifier/dp/B0002OVC9W If you have eye problems, you might need to get an optometrist's opinion as to the ocular diameter best for you, and the focal length. I prefer a medium diameter of lens about 20-22 to limit side light and a long focal length ( farther away from the coin surface ( helps not to breath when looking at raw coins, as later mucus specks may develop. My main loupe is an old ( 20 years) linen checker (10X), cost about $60 then, but at coin club meeting, every one wants to borrow it. I use a single led flashlite for any extra light needed. If you have astigmatism, you may just have to move the loupe and coin around more than normal eyes, although the optometrist can sell you corrected jewelers loupe that fit on the edge of your eyeglasses. A Rock shop or Jeweler might have several different ones you cold use to test. Jim
Something important to remember JCB - 95% of all grading is done with the naked eye, or with your glasses on if you have old guy eyes like me. And the recommended power for a loupe for those rare times you do need one for grading - is 5x, no stronger. Or else you will likely under-grade your coin. But for examining coins - you can use up to an electron microscope if ya want
There are so many options out there. I have never found anything with lights that lasted very long. To me the quality of the optics is the most important thing. The bad part is the price of quality. I use a 3+6=9. For my eyes the 3 is just right for small coins and the 9 is great for looking at varieties.
