Clear, sharp expandable pictures online remain the best way to spark bids in coin auctions, especially if your close-up photograph is able to capture luster.

Luster is one of the most difficult qualities to capture with a digital camera. The best way to depict luster, or the metallic shine and metal flow of a silver coin, such as a Morgan dollar–with its spectacular cartwheel effect–is to photograph in natural lighting or in natural lighting plus fluorescent lighting.

Here are two Morgans, one shot correctly so that luster is visible, and another shot without natural lighting.

Even with adequate lighting, the photographer has to make sure there are no “hot spots” (or distorting light reflections) on the coin. Those spots can obscure or present in false light key areas of a coin, again decreasing bids. See the example below.

If hot spots continue to plague your photos, invest in a light box. You can use it for jewelry as well as coins.

Accurate photographs do more than bring higher bids; they cut down on complaints and make the Proxibid experience every that much more enjoyable for all.

Proxiblog is an independent entity with no connection to the auction portal Proxibid. Our intent is to uphold basic numismatic standards as established by the American Numismatic Association and the National Auctioneer Association and to ensure a pleasurable bidding experience not only on Proxibid but also on similar portals such as iCollector and AuctionZip.