What’s the best microscope for looking at coins, stamps, jewelry, and rocks?

A stereo microscope is the best choice for looking at collectibles. Its lowest powers may allow you to see the entire stamp or coin. It has enough working distance for rocks and jewelry. Higher powers will show details and give you depth as well, showing mold and die marks and raised printing more easily.

A microscope with both top and bottom illumination will reveal watermarks by switching back and forth between the two different kinds of illumination.

One of Celestron’s digital microscopes, such as the Handheld Digital Microscope Pro (#44308) or InfiniView (#44360), is recommended for viewing/imaging entire specimens such as small rocks, stamps, coins, rings, etc.

Updated 12/18/13