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Coin Photography Tips

Better photos mean fewer listing rejections, clearer buyer confidence, and stronger Dent Trust Factor reads. You don’t need a studio—just care and good light.

1. 1. Capture both sides

   Always photograph the obverse (heads) and reverse (tails). Edge or rim shots help for varieties, damage, or reeded edges.

2. 2. Use good, even light

   Daylight near a window or two soft lamps work well. Avoid a single harsh overhead light that creates hard shadows.

3. 3. Kill the glare

   Tilt the coin or light slightly so specular reflections don’t blow out the design. If the phone screen looks white, change the angle.

4. 4. Neutral background

   Place the coin on plain white, gray, or black paper/cloth—no busy patterns. Contrast helps the coin edges read clearly.

5. 5. Fill the frame

   Get close enough that the coin is large in the photo, but stay in focus. Tap to focus on the high points of the design.

6. 6. Show flaws honestly

   If there is a scratch, spot, rim ding, or cleaning, include a clear close-up. Honest photos reduce disputes and build trust.

7. 7. Steady the phone

   Rest elbows on the table or use a small stand. Motion blur kills grade reads and lowers DTF confidence.

8. 8. Review before you publish

   Zoom in yourself. If you can’t see date, mint mark, or major wear from your photos, a buyer can’t either—reshoot.

Learn what to photograph and why it matters—so you can buy and sell with fewer surprises. Grading guide · Fees