G & S Sales & Pawn LLC

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into G & S Sales & Pawn LLC in Sterling, CO. 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

   Never step behind the counter

   That side of the glass is staff only — even if you “just want to show them something in better light.” Hand the coins across. Wait to be invited if they have a viewing area. Crossing the rail uninvited is how visits end early.

2. 02

   Cameras and a locked door are normal

   Buzz-in doors, counters, and cameras protect the shop and the people in it. They are not aimed at you personally. Follow the house rules. If you are asked to wait to be let in, wait. That is a well-run store, not a cold shoulder.

3. 03

   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.

4. 04

   Do not clean the coins

   Polish, dip, baking soda, and a toothbrush lower the value of most collectible coins. Leave dirt and toning alone. If you already cleaned something, say so. A dealer would rather hear the truth than discover it under a lamp.

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.