Bromberg & Company, Inc.

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Bromberg & Company, Inc. in Mountain Brook, 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

   Regulars get easier visits because they are known

   Introduce yourself. Come back. Pay as you said you would. The second visit is almost always smoother than the first. A local shop is a relationship, not a vending machine. That works in your favor when you have something unusual.

2. 02

   Keep quiet about another customer’s coins

   Do not grade, joke about, or value coins that are not yours. “That’s only a VF” from behind someone who is selling grandpa’s album is not helpful. Look at the cases. Let the dealer run their counter. You will get your turn.

3. 03

   Lunch and after-work can stack the counter

   Local shops get a rush when people are off the clock. If you have a box, those windows are the wrong time to expect a leisurely offer. Call and ask when they can sit with it. Most dealers would rather schedule you than rush you.

4. 04

   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.

5. 05

   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.