North American Mint

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into North American Mint in Rochester, NY. 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

   Say thank you even if you do not deal

   Looking is part of the hobby. Buying or selling is not required. If they spent time with you, say thanks and mean it. A short good visit is how regulars are made. A review later, if you had a fair experience, helps the shop more than a vague promise to “come back sometime.”

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

   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.

4. 04

   Follow the house rules without a debate

   Bags on the floor, backpacks zipped, one person at the glass — shops set these for a reason. Argue about it and the visit is already off. If a rule is unclear, ask. If it is clear, do it.

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.