First State Coins

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into First State Coins in Wilmington, DE. 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

   Wait your turn at the counter

   A coin shop is not a buffet line. The person already at the glass is in a private conversation. Stand back, keep your box closed, and wait to be invited forward. Jumping in with “real quick” questions while someone is selling a collection is the fastest way to start a visit on the wrong foot.

2. 02

   Do not ask them to come out to the car

   Bring the coins inside. A dealer should not leave the store to look at a trunk. It is a safety issue for them and for you. If the lot is heavy, make two trips or ask if they have a cart. The work happens at the counter.

3. 03

   This is a working shop, not a museum desk

   They will talk coins. They will not give a free seminar on forty pieces while a line forms. Pick your best questions. Buy a book if you want to learn the series. A dealer who teaches a little is being generous with the clock.

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

   Show week can empty the shop — or pack it

   If the dealer is on the road, the store may be closed or on shorter hours. If they just got back, they may be unpacking. Check this listing for upcoming shows and call if your visit is important. It is not personal. The bourse is part of the business.