Taylor Made Designs

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Taylor Made Designs in Opelika, AL. 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

   A hold is a promise. Mean it.

   If they hold a coin for you, ask how long and how you pay. Come back or call. Do not park the same piece at two shops. Dealers remember the customer who used a hold as a free option. They also remember the one who did what they said.

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

   Say thank you even if you do not deal

   Looking is part of the hobby. Buying or selling is not required. If they spent time with you, say thanks and mean it. A short good visit is how regulars are made. A review later, if you had a fair experience, helps the shop more than a vague promise to “come back sometime.”

4. 04

   Stay with your coins

   Do not leave a box on the counter and wander the cases. Do not ask the dealer to watch your bag while you go to the car. Your lot stays in front of you until the deal is done or you pack up. That is how both sides stay comfortable.

5. 05

   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.