Black Mountain Coins

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Black Mountain Coins in Black Mountain, NC. 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

   They do not have to buy what you brought

   A shop can pass on tokens, damaged coins, or a category they do not handle. “We don’t buy that” is information. Ask who might. Do not argue them into a box they cannot use. A clean no today keeps the door open next time.

2. 02

   Do not ask them to come out to the car

   Bring the coins inside. A dealer should not leave the store to look at a trunk. It is a safety issue for them and for you. If the lot is heavy, make two trips or ask if they have a cart. The work happens at the counter.

3. 03

   Online asking prices are not what a shop pays

   A listing, a completed auction before fees, and a dealer buy price are three different numbers. Screenshots of asks are not a bid. Bring the coins. Let them look. Then talk. You will get further than arguing from a tab on your phone.

4. 04

   Bring coins in a way they can actually look at them

   Trays, albums, and labeled bags beat a torn grocery sack. Do not pour coins onto glass. Hand them a box they can work through. Dirt, food, and loose batteries in the same tin make a poor first impression and a slower look.

5. 05

   Ask how this shop likes to pay and get paid

   Cash, debit, credit, check, and wire are not universal. Some counters are cash-friendly on bullion. Some run cards every day. Some write a check on a larger buy. Ask before you assume. Have a backup so a good deal does not stall over the last step.