How to Find a Good Coin Dealer
In terms of finding a local coin dealer near you, there are many options available to you. Whether you want to visit the dealer to find out how much your coins may be worth or sell or buy some coins, you need to do your homework. A lot of jewelers, junk bullion buyers, and pawnbrokers may buy your coins cheap, usually for the metal’s bullion value only. To make sure you don’t get ripped off when selling or buying rare coins, pick the right coin dealer. Here are tips to help you with this:
Consult with the Professional Dealer Directories
To ensure you choose this kind of dealer, consult with the PNG directory. This organization has strict requirements for its member dealers. Also, the American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) Dealer Directory has a code of ethics that will give some recourse when you buy fake coins or unfairly graded coins.
Visit Coin Shows or Join Clubs
Check if there are local coin clubs in your area. A lot of such clubs sponsor monthly shows where many coin dealers will set up tables to buy and sell coins. You can also have access to coin shows through coin clubs.
A lot of coins can be bought online but this doesn’t provide you with the opportunity to hold, inspect, and compare coins you want to buy. By visiting coin shows or local coin shops, you can assess the coin firsthand before buying it. In addition, a trusted coin dealer can offer you valuable information to help you make a good purchase. Also, a lot of coin shows hold mini-seminars which help new coin collectors hone their collecting skills.
Find Dealers through Other Sources
Online yellow pages can help you find the coin dealer you might be looking for. Usually, when you look at the ads at their “Coin Dealers” section, you will be able to judge whether a coin dealer is a good choice or not. Choose dealers that specialize in things such as gold coins or U. S. coins. A good dealer will not only be looking to purchase coins for scrap metal prices.
If you cannot find a good coin dealer using the options above, expand your search to local newspapers. Look for publications which come out every week and have private party ads. They should have a “Coin” section where people will advertise to purchase and sell coins privately.
