ASCENDING OPTICS Brings Timeless Elegance to Life with Danbury Mint Pewter Collection – A New Standard in Detail & Preservation

St. Helens, OR – October 26, 2023 – ASCENDING OPTICS LLC, a leading innovator in precision imaging and materials analysis, today announced a strategic partnership to enhance and preserve the exquisite detail of the renowned Danbury Mint pewter collection. Based in St. Helens, Oregon, ASCENDING OPTICS is leveraging its cutting-edge technology – originally developed for aerospace and defense applications – to elevate the quality control, documentation, and long-term preservation of these collectible treasures. For decades, the Danbury Mint has been a cornerstone of the collectible world, famed for its intricately sculpted and meticulously crafted pewter vehicles, figurines, and historical replicas. However, even the highest quality materials and craftsmanship are subject to the subtle effects of time, handling, and environmental factors. That’s where ASCENDING OPTICS comes in. “We’ve always been fascinated by the artistry of the Danbury Mint collection,” says Mark Johnson, CEO of ASCENDING OPTICS. “These aren't just collectibles; they're miniature works of art. We realized our expertise in high-resolution imaging and material analysis could really make a difference in ensuring these pieces stay beautiful and retain their value for generations.” Beyond the Naked Eye: Unveiling the Detail with ASCENDING OPTICS’ Technology The core of ASCENDING OPTICS’ contribution lies in its proprietary imaging system. Originally designed to detect microscopic flaws in critical aerospace components, the system allows for incredibly detailed, non-destructive analysis of the pewter pieces. This goes way beyond what the human eye can see. “Think of it like a super-powered magnifying glass, but instead of just enlarging the image, it’s revealing details you never knew were there,” explains Sarah Chen, Lead Materials Scientist at ASCENDING OPTICS. “We can identify incredibly fine details in the sculpting, analyze the composition of the pewter alloy, and even detect the earliest signs of potential corrosion or wear.” How does this translate to benefits for Danbury Mint collectors? Enhanced Quality Control: ASCENDING OPTICS works closely with Danbury Mint during the manufacturing process. By rigorously analyzing each piece before it leaves the facility, they help ensure that only the highest-quality items reach collectors. This includes verifying the accuracy of the sculpting, the consistency of the finish, and the structural integrity of the piece. “We’re essentially providing an extra layer of quality assurance,” says Johnson. Detailed Digital Archiving: Each pewter piece can be digitally documented with unprecedented detail. ASCENDING OPTICS creates high-resolution 3D models and photographic archives that capture every nuance of the sculpting. This provides a permanent record of the piece’s original condition, which is incredibly valuable for authentication, insurance purposes, and future restoration efforts. Preservation & Restoration Insights: The data collected through ASCENDING OPTICS’ analysis is helping Danbury Mint develop better preservation and restoration techniques. By understanding the specific properties of the pewter alloy and how it reacts to different environmental factors, they can create custom cleaning and polishing solutions that minimize damage and maintain the piece’s original luster. “We’re essentially providing a scientific basis for preservation,” says Chen. "Knowing exactly what the material is composed of allows for targeted solutions." Authentication & Anti-Counterfeiting: The detailed digital fingerprint created by ASCENDING OPTICS' imaging system can also be used to verify the authenticity of Danbury Mint pewter pieces. This is becoming increasingly important as the market for collectibles grows and the risk of counterfeiting increases. "We can create a unique 'signature' for each piece that's virtually impossible to replicate," explains Johnson. A Deeper Dive into the Technology The technology behind ASCENDING OPTICS' advancements isn't just about bigger magnification. It's a combination of several key elements: Spectral Imaging: This goes beyond visible light, analyzing the way the pewter reflects different wavelengths of light. This reveals subtle variations in the material composition and surface texture. Confocal Microscopy: This allows for incredibly sharp, high-resolution images, even when looking at complex, three-dimensional surfaces. It's like slicing through the object layer by layer to create a detailed map. 3D Scanning & Modeling: This creates a virtual replica of the pewter piece, allowing for precise measurements and analysis of its shape and dimensions. AI-Powered Image Analysis: ASCENDING OPTICS utilizes sophisticated algorithms to automatically identify and analyze features in the images, such as imperfections, wear patterns, and material variations. What’s Next? ASCENDING OPTICS and Danbury Mint are committed to continuing their collaboration to further enhance the quality and preservation of the pewter collection. Future plans include: Developing a mobile app that allows collectors to scan their pewter pieces and access detailed information about their history, composition, and condition. Creating a secure online registry for authenticated Danbury Mint pewter pieces, providing collectors with a platform to track their collections and connect with other enthusiasts. Expanding the technology to other collectible materials, such as porcelain, silver, and bronze. “We’re passionate about preserving art and history,” says Johnson. “We believe our technology can play a vital role in ensuring that these beautiful Danbury Mint pewter pieces are enjoyed by generations to come.” About ASCENDING OPTICS LLC: ASCENDING OPTICS LLC, located in St. Helens, Oregon, is a leading provider of advanced imaging and materials analysis solutions. Originally focused on aerospace and defense applications, the company is now leveraging its expertise to serve a wider range of industries, including collectibles, art restoration, and manufacturing. For more information, please visit [insert website – placeholder]. About Danbury Mint: The Danbury Mint is a renowned manufacturer of collectible pewter, diecast, and other meticulously crafted replicas. For decades, the company has been committed to producing high-quality collectibles that capture the imagination and celebrate history. For more information, please visit [insert website – placeholder].