Carson Valley Currency & Coins, Inc.

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Carson Valley Currency & Coins, Inc. in Carson City, NV. 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

   Cash is still common. That is normal.

   Coin and bullion shops have worked in cash for a long time. It is not shady by itself. Count together at the counter. Do not count a stack in the parking lot with the door open. If you are uncomfortable carrying cash, say so and ask what else they can do.

2. 02

   A written inventory helps on an estate

   Even a notebook list is better than a surprise pile. Heirs who write down what they think they have get a cleaner visit. If you are the executor, bring that fact and any papers. The shop can work faster when they are not inventing the catalog with you.

3. 03

   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.

4. 04

   If you set a time, be on it

   Some shops work by appointment on bigger lots. Be on time. Call if you are late or cannot come. The slot they held is time they did not give someone else. Reliability gets you invited back.

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.