Coin Photography Question: Does anyone use a Dino-Lite Microscope?

Hi Fellow "Coin-Chat" Readers ...... I'm wanting to start photographing my coins; Both Raw & Slabbed. Is anyone using the brand "Dino-Lite Handheld Microscopes" system to photograph coins? If so, which model and accessories do you use? I'm thinking: Microscope - Precision Stand - Lights. I have seen results of this system and they are mesmerizing. Any help; suggestions; advise .... would be really really appreciated. Thanks all in advance.

 

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@coinzip
I tagged Alan for you ...Alan sells and services dino lite scopes if any one can advise you it would be him.

 

Make sure it's at least 5MP and has diffuser on the scope lights too .
As for a stand, spiral all the way . I also own a hand held LCD light to blend and even the lighting out ...

 

I'm gonna stay out of this.

 

I use a AM311S w/ the adjustable stand. I've had it for awhile and I don't think they offer this model any longer. the attached was taken with it.1909 S FS-1501 Lincoln cent. The magnifier is one of the tools in the program.

 

The hardest thing with any of the USB microscopes is focusing because the focus knob is built into the body, you will find you are slightly changing the orientation and position of the scope. So it becomes a bit of an iterative process. Just take your time and make small adjustments (I find that if I think about moving the knob but don't actually do so, the micro movements of my finger actually do make the adjustments).

DinoLite makes a good product - I've spent time with them at several coin shows when it was slow. I personally bought the 8MP Celestron ($80 on sale at Amazon one day), but find the built-in lights to be too much. I take it to coin shows and use my laptop or tablet to check for RPDs real time.

 

In my opinion these microscopes are a great tool for macro shots but not all that good for other images.

 

I'm here to help, if you have any specific questions about Dino-Lite scopes or accessories ask away...

 

Thank you everyone - One final question: Of ALL the models Dino-Lite makes, which one - being the most affordable - should I look seriously into buying....limited budget. My goal is: Images for eBay and my own records; MAINLY slabbed coins up to and including $20. Double Eagles......Thanks again.

 

You want the 1.3MP models, which ever of those is cheapest. I think it's this one: https://www.dinolite.us/products/digital-microscopes/usb/basic/am4111t with an MSRP of $329.

However this is the one I have: https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-Handheld-Digital-Microscope-Pro/dp/B00CMJ1I08 and it's under $80. 5MP. There are posts on how to extend the post to allow imaging larger items.

 

I know what you're thinking because I did the same thing. I'm out...

 

There are many threads on this subject if one searches. Most users go beyond the basic use for which they are intended , resulting in large amounts of extrapolated ( false) detail when they blow it up for the forum. Most of the dazzling coin photos are not shot with theses ( especially full coin ) and most of the blurry artifact laden ones are.

 

@desertgem These images were taken with different Dino-Lite scopes as part of a photo contest...

Edited to add: Keep in mind a microscope is not designed to take images of large objects.

 

Sorry, I stand with my comment. Your photos are very good for an usb, but in my view pixelation and lack of depth of focus is apparent in all of them compared to a light microscope. For the money, it is probably a good compromise and best of luck to you.

 

Dino-lite does not take very good general photographs. It is intended for extreme close-ups.

And my standard position is: if you need a microscope, it isn't worth it.

 

I'm looking for a microscope to view error coins, etc. Taking a photo would be nice too. I realize lighting is important, what is the least expensive one you would recommend? I don't have to take photos, so, leave that out of this question, and what 2 microscopes would you recommend. I can send my coins in for grading once I have identified which coin would merit grading. Is the Tampa grading company the best for errors?