Simonetti Antiques Inc

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Simonetti Antiques Inc in Weyers Cave, VA. 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

   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.

3. 03

   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.

4. 04

   Count money together, then put it away

   Whether you are paying or getting paid, count at the counter where both of you can see. Then put it away. That protects you and the shop. If something is off, it is much easier to fix before anyone has left the glass.

5. 05

   If you are getting another offer, say so up front

   On a large lot it is fair to hear more than one shop. Tell them. A good dealer would rather know than spend an hour and find out you were only using them for a number. Do not treat a courtesy look as free inventory research for the next counter the same afternoon.