A coin microscope can help you examine your coins for defects, scratches and irregularities. But what can you see with a coin microscope? A coin microscope may help you view residues of cleaning materials or brush fibers stuck in cracks on the coin. Ancient bronze coins might have microscopic lead pockets. Fine red fibers usually mean the coin spent some time in a flocked tray. Seams and file marks on the edges may help define authenticity. Random scratches are usually from normal use. Scratches following a pattern suggest the coin was cleaned on a buffer or by hand.