DR Stamps and Coins

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into DR Stamps and Coins in W Saginaw Lansing, MI. 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

   You do not have to announce what you paid

   “I have three thousand in this” is not a grade or a melt value. It puts the dealer on defense and does not change what the coin is. Tell them what it is, where it came from if that matters, and what you want to do. Let the piece speak, then talk numbers.

2. 02

   Ask how this shop likes to pay and get paid

   Cash, debit, credit, check, and wire are not universal. Some counters are cash-friendly on bullion. Some run cards every day. Some write a check on a larger buy. Ask before you assume. Have a backup so a good deal does not stall over the last step.

3. 03

   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.

4. 04

   They may weigh, look up, or photograph

   That is how a careful shop works. It is not stalling. Stay with your coins. If they need a minute in the back, that is their process. Ask if you are unsure what is happening. Curiosity is fine. Suspicion as a default is not.

5. 05

   Bring the holders, papers, and boxes they came in

   Original packaging, certificates, and grading-company holders matter. Do not dump everything into a bag to “make it easier.” The dealer would rather see it the way it has been kept. Leave coins in PCGS, NGC, or ANACS holders.