California Gold and Silver Exchange

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into California Gold and Silver Exchange in Upland, CA. 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

   If there is a card or check policy, they will tell you

   Do not guess at percentages. Do not argue from what another shop does. Ask what this shop does, listen, and decide. Policies differ for a reason. The honest move is a straight question, not a speech about “what everyone else charges.”

2. 02

   No magnets, acids, or scratch tests on the pad

   The shop has the tools if a test is needed. Do not perform experiments on the glass. You can damage the coin and the counter. If you think something is fake, say why and let them look.

3. 03

   Decide if you are selling all of it or part of it

   “I need this gone” and “I only want to sell the silver” lead to different offers. Decide before you sit down. Changing the goal halfway through wastes their time and yours. It is fine to keep a piece that is sentimental. Say which one.

4. 04

   “Best I can do” is a sentence, not an insult

   They have to sell it, hold it, and stay in business. You can say no. You can ask if they can do better on part of the lot. You should not treat a firm number as a personal slight. A calm “I need to think about that” is enough.

5. 05

   Saturday morning is often the busy window

   That is when collections walk in and regulars stop by. Fine if you like energy. Less fine if you want a long, quiet look at an estate. Midweek late morning is often easier. If you need time, ask when they are slower.