Gold and Silver Traders

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Gold and Silver Traders in Houston, TX. 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

   Ask if they buy the whole lot or select pieces

   Some shops write one number for the box. Some pull the coins they can use. Neither is wrong. Ask which they do before they start. If you need everything gone today, say that. If you only want to sell the silver, say that too.

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

   Show week can empty the shop — or pack it

   If the dealer is on the road, the store may be closed or on shorter hours. If they just got back, they may be unpacking. Check this listing for upcoming shows and call if your visit is important. It is not personal. The bourse is part of the business.

4. 04

   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.

5. 05

   What is in the case today may be gone tomorrow

   Coin shops turn inventory. A picture from last month is not a hold. If you want a date or a grade, call or start a want list. Showing up and hoping the exact piece is still there is how people get disappointed.