Tiber Numismatics and Auctions, LLC.

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Tiber Numismatics and Auctions, LLC. in Jacksonville Beach, FL. 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

   Do not walk in at closing with a suitcase

   Five minutes to close is time to pick up a hold, not to dump an estate. Large lots take time to weigh, look up, and talk through. Call earlier in the day and ask when they can give you a proper look. A shop that is locking the door still has to balance the register and get home.

2. 02

   Bullion and collector coins are different conversations

   Melt moves with the market. A key date does not. Say what you think you have, then let them look. Mixing “it’s old so it must be rare” with a junk-silver bag slows everyone down. Sort in your mind: weight versus date.

3. 03

   Call ahead with a large collection or an estate

   A suitcase is not a walk-in impulse. Tell them roughly what you have and when you can come. They may want a second set of hands or a block of time. That is how you get a fair look instead of a glance between other customers.

4. 04

   Do not crack a graded holder in the shop

   PCGS, NGC, ANACS, and CAC holders are part of the product. Opening one at the counter to “see it better” can wreck the value. If you want it out, that is a decision you make at home, not a demonstration.

5. 05

   Buying a specific date? Call first.

   Shops cannot stock every date and mint. A one-minute call — or a want list — saves a trip. If they have it, they can pull it. If they do not, they can watch for it. Walking in cold for one coin is a hope, not a plan.