Locate the stars within the complete design
Begin with level photographs of both faces. The portrait, commemorative wording, denomination and star positions should remain visible with the surrounding border and rim.
Evidence to secure
Give the coin one number, then record the complete portrait side, reverse, full circumference, weight and diameter. Add close-ups of the stars only after their positions can be found on the whole face.
Questions to keep open
Leave weak characters, worn star points and covered edge sections unresolved. Do not use a similar commemorative dollar to restore a missing stroke or select a variety.
An old sleeve or holder label may preserve a former attribution; photograph and transcribe it separately from details visible on the coin.
Read outward from portrait and legends
Check the portrait, surrounding characters and inner border before moving to the commemorative text, denomination, decorative elements and stars. This order reduces the chance of judging the whole coin from one popular marker.
Use located raking-light views for the star points, lettering and fields. A floating macro image cannot show whether a soft corner is wear, strike or simply the wrong position.
Make the edge a continuous record
Photograph the circumference in overlapping frames with a fixed start and direction. Retain seams, filing, knocks, holes, solder or former jewellery evidence without scraping the rim.
Record weight, diameter, instrument and unit on the same card. Compare measurements only after the visible design supports the coin family.
Separate condition from variety evidence
Describe toning, high-point wear, strike weakness, wipe marks and cleaning-related brightness by location. Uneven surface colour is not a reason to polish around the stars.
Map each chop, scratch, rim bruise or repair on an overall view. Note when damage crosses a diagnostic line and affects how confidently it can be read.
Use related coins carefully
Compare upper-star and lower-star arrangements only with separately numbered examples. Keep every comparison coin's photographs and dimensions outside the subject file.
Published or historical statements need an identified reference and consultation date. Market labels can guide a search but cannot prove the star variety or date.
Final review of the commemorative dollar
Reconcile the portrait, commemorative legends, denomination, star positions, borders, edge and measurements under one item number. Remove any close-up whose source coin is uncertain.
Retain the first photographs if a later view changes the proposed variety. Date the revision and identify the feature that became clearer.
Photographs can establish major design relationships and obvious damage. Metal, fine tooling and concealed edge work may still need direct examination.
Do not open a sealed holder, dip the coin or brighten the field for routine identification. State the hidden area and preserve the current enclosure.
Finish with confirmed features and a separate unresolved list. This keeps the six-pointed stars useful without allowing them to dominate the entire attribution.
