Help! I can not see!

[ChickasawStampMan]

i am going through a bunch of small old foreign stamps (definitive size), and about half the time I cannot read the country name or info on the stamp because it is too small. (Yes, I am getting older, I wear bifocals and my hands are starting to shake a little.) Does anyone have an idea of a type of magnifying glass that is free standing that I can purchase that does not break the bank? That way I can hold the stamp with tongs and move it around under the magnifying glass.
thanks in advance
chris

[khj]

I've used several magnifiers over the years. By far the one I like to use the most is not even a philatelic magnifier!

I like to use a fold-up 5x fabric loupe magnifier that you can use as hand-held, or fold it out into a stand. It's a lot cheaper than many of the over-priced philatelic magnifiers on the market, while still much better quality lens than cheapie magnifiers.

You should be able to get one for well-under $10, including tax/shipping. I'll see if I can pilfer a pic.

[khj]

I got mine either at Fry's Electronics or Hobby Lobby, I can't remember. It was something like $5-$6, then tack on tax.

Very convenient, and because one panel is solid black, I even use it to detect watermarks!

Really, 5x-6x is about as reasonable you sufficient area and minimal distortion. You can pay much higher for higher magnification, but the distortion free area is very small -- if I need more than 5x, I just scan the stamp at high resolution and don't have to worry about distortion or taking out the stamp to re-examine.

I'd be very interested in other experiences, or suggestions for a magnifier to meet Chris' needs. I think we've either all run into this problem or will run into this problem. k

[kacyds]

I have purchased the 10X OVERLAY LIGHTED MAGNIFIER from nolastampshop.com



It has two led lights that light up the stamp. I place it over the stamp on my desk to see the details. If you looking for a magnifier to hold in your hand and view stamps with a pair a tongs, then I wouldnt recommend this one.

For less than $20, I truly love this magnifier.

Here is the link.... stores.nolastampshop.com/10x-overlay-lighted-magnifier/