Stewart's Pawn Shop

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Stewart's Pawn Shop in Louisville, KY. 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 Do not offer to buy their coins, do not quote a price over their shoulder, and do not ask the shop to “introduce you.”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

   Stay with your coins

   Do not leave a box on the counter and wander the cases. Do not ask the dealer to watch your bag while you go to the car. Your lot stays in front of you until the deal is done or you pack up. That is how both sides stay comfortable.

3. 03

   A hold is a promise. Mean it.

   If they hold a coin for you, ask how long and how you pay. Come back or call. Do not park the same piece at two shops. Dealers remember the customer who used a hold as a free option. They also remember the one who did what they said.

4. 04

   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.

5. 05

   They do not have to buy what you brought

   A shop can pass on tokens, damaged coins, or a category they do not handle. “We don’t buy that” is information. Ask who might. Do not argue them into a box they cannot use. A clean no today keeps the door open next time.