Montgomery Chandler, Inc

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Montgomery Chandler, Inc in Silsbee, TX. 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 make a deal with another customer at the counter

   If you overhear what someone is selling, that is not an invitation. Do not offer to buy their coins, do not quote a price over their shoulder, and do not ask the shop to “introduce you.” The counter is the shop’s workplace. Side deals in the aisle put the dealer in an ugly spot and make other customers uncomfortable.

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

   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.

4. 04

   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.

5. 05

   Online asking prices are not what a shop pays

   A listing, a completed auction before fees, and a dealer buy price are three different numbers. Screenshots of asks are not a bid. Bring the coins. Let them look. Then talk. You will get further than arguing from a tab on your phone.