What is Axial Lighting?

Axial lighting is a specialized technique in coin photography that provides even, uniform illumination by eliminating shadows and glare. This method works by directing light at a 45-degree angle onto a transparent beam splitter, such as glass or acrylic. The beam splitter reflects the light downward onto the coin’s surface while allowing the camera to remain aligned with the optical axis, capturing a well-lit, shadow-free image.

By enhancing a coin’s luster, engraving depth, and fine details, axial lighting ensures that collectors, numismatists, and sellers can showcase their coins with exceptional clarity and accuracy. This technique is widely used by professionals to highlight the true beauty of their collections in photographs.

Diagram of Axial Lighting

Why the Axial Light Cube?

The Axial Light Cube offers a cost-effective and convenient way to achieve professional-quality coin photos without the need for an expensive studio setup. Traditional axial lighting systems can be costly and require a dedicated workspace, making them impractical for many collectors and sellers.

If you're selling coins, high-quality images set you apart from the competition. Poor lighting can obscure important details, but the Axial Light Cube ensures your photos are crisp, evenly lit, and professional—helping to increase buyer confidence and sales. Many sellers find that the Axial Light Cube practically pays for itself with the improved presentation of their listings.

Using advanced 3D printing technology, we’ve designed the Axial Light Cube to be both affordable and effective, passing the savings directly to you.

How It Works

A separate continuous light source is required, but most standard desk lamps will work well. Gooseneck desk lamps are ideal as they provide a single-point light source and allow for precise light positioning. Ring lights are not recommended as they can create multiple reflections and uneven lighting.

Inside the Axial Light Cube, an acrylic beam splitter is positioned at a 45-degree angle. This reflects light evenly onto the coin’s surface while allowing the camera to capture a well-lit, shadow-free image from the top viewing hole. The included coin platform elevates the coin and provides a black background, making post-processing easier.

The Axial Light Cube is compatible with both smartphones and professional cameras. For best results, we recommend using a camera—mobile or professional—with a slight zoom function to enhance image quality and simplify post-processing.

The cube accommodates a wide range of coin sizes, from dimes to large dollar coins, ensuring consistent, high-quality results. Whether capturing intricate details or larger surfaces, the Axial Light Cube delivers even lighting for professional-grade images every time.

Note: The Axial Light Cube is specifically designed for raw (ungraded) coins. Graded coins or coins in flips will not fit inside the cube. However, some customers have successfully used the cube for graded coins by placing it on top of the slab.

• Package Includes: 1x Axial Light Cube, 1x Coin Platform, 1x Glass Plate (preinstalled in Axial Light Cube), 1x Lens Wipe, 1x Microfiber Cloth

Post Processing

Some level of post-processing is required to achieve the best results, but many free tools make the process quick and easy. Programs like GIMP, Lightroom Mobile, Pixlr, Photopea, and Remove.bg offer features such as background removal, subject selection, and precise editing to help refine coin images for a professional presentation. For beginners, I recommend Remove.bg or Pixlr, as they offer simple AI-powered background removal and easy-to-use editing tools. Even beginner-friendly options can produce excellent results with the right adjustments.

These are raw images before post processing.

Here are the same photos after minor post processing.

Maintenance

To remove the acrylic pane, slide it out through the top slot. Since the pane fits securely, place a microfiber cloth directly on the acrylic surface and gently shimmy it out while applying light, even pressure. This prevents fingerprints and reduces the risk of scratching.

For cleaning, use a microfiber cloth with water or a mild, acrylic-safe cleaner. Do not use alcohol-based lens wipes or harsh chemicals, as they can cause clouding or fine cracks over time. A compressed air duster can be used to remove dust, but use gentle bursts to avoid damaging the acrylic.

Store the Axial Light Cube with the solid side facing up to minimize dust buildup on the acrylic pane. If your acrylic pane breaks, we are happy to cover the first replacement for free (domestic shipping included). Additional panes are available for $5 each plus shipping for verified Axial Light Cube customers.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, comments, or product requests, feel free to reach out through eBay messages at any time. We respond within 24 hours and are happy to assist with any concerns.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we encourage you to contact us with any questions—we're here to help ensure you have the best experience possible.