Begin with what the Sun Yat-sen coin shows
In Hong Kong collection and market records, take complete portrait and reverse views before adopting a variety from an old sleeve or online enlargement.
Map the grain wreath, star positions, denomination and diagnostic marks under the coin number.
Questions to retain
List missing label, holder and edge evidence, distinguishing unreadable text from unsupported provenance claims.
Transcribe visible designs first
Record the portrait, commemorative wording, reverse devices, dimensions and packaging, leaving weak features open.
Separate toning, wear, strike softness, wiping and chemical brightness; darkness is not a reason to clean.
Market names need complete-coin support
Sort coins by full obverse, reverse and star arrangement before comparing six-star, five-star or other terms.
An isolated star close-up cannot replace the portrait, legends, wreath and rim relationship.
Cite variety sources with consultation dates and keep online pictures outside the physical record.
Keep every view with one number
Preserve chops, envelopes and source statements as linked context, not substitutes for design and edge evidence.
Add close-ups of portrait, commemorative text, stars, wreath, inner border and beaded border after full views.
Carry that number into the complete edge, weight, diameter, holder and documents.
Let unresolved points determine inspection
Survey the edge in overlapping frames without polishing, filing or probing any repair or mounting trace.
Images can establish design relationships and obvious damage, while metal and subtle tooling may need direct review.
Decide whether the star-position comparison is reproducible
Reconcile full faces, star locations, denomination, edge and dimensions before proposing a specific variety.
Keep holder labels in provenance and direct observations in the identity and condition sections.
When a document conflicts with the coin, preserve both wordings and dates without forcing a conclusion.
Finish with a repeatable list of confirmed, proposed and unresolved features.
Retain original photographs, measured readings and surface condition through handover.
