Multiple quantum (MQ) coherences are characterized by their coherence number and the number of spins that make up the state, though only the coherence number is normally measured. We present a simple set of measurements that extend our knowledge of the MQ state by recording the coherences in two non-commuting bases-the x and the z bases (related by a similarity transformation). The measurement of coherences in a basis other than the usual z basis also permits the study of spin dynamics under Hamiltonians that conserve z basis coherence number. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.