Ameri Pawn, Inc

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Ameri Pawn, Inc in Valparaiso, IN. These rotate daily. They are general collector etiquette from CDXList — not this shop’s house rules. When something is unclear, ask the person at the counter.

1. 01

   Kids are welcome when they stay with you

   Most shops like young collectors. Keep children next to you, not behind the counter or in the cases. Hands off other people’s coins. A short visit with one or two questions beats a long visit where the dealer is watching the room instead of helping you.

2. 02

   Know roughly what you brought

   You do not need to be an expert. A simple list — silver dollars, a few proofs, a bag of wheat cents — helps. “I have no idea, you tell me” on a mixed box is fine once. It is harder when the box is huge and you cannot say what you want out of the visit.

3. 03

   Cash is still common. That is normal.

   Coin and bullion shops have worked in cash for a long time. It is not shady by itself. Count together at the counter. Do not count a stack in the parking lot with the door open. If you are uncomfortable carrying cash, say so and ask what else they can do.

4. 04

   Keep paper money flat and in sleeves if you have them

   Do not fold old notes to “fit the envelope.” Do not rubber-band a stack of large-size bills. Do not tape tears. Bring them as they are. Currency people would rather see an honest wrinkle than a new crease you added in the car.

5. 05

   A buy offer is not an appraisal

   An offer is what this shop will pay today. An appraisal is a written opinion, often for insurance or an estate, and it is a different service. If you need a document, say that first. Do not treat a verbal number as a formal appraisal.