Top Coin Shop Charleston SC

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Top Coin Shop Charleston SC in North Charleston, SC. 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

   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.

2. 02

   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.

3. 03

   Saturday morning is often the busy window

   That is when collections walk in and regulars stop by. Fine if you like energy. Less fine if you want a long, quiet look at an estate. Midweek late morning is often easier. If you need time, ask when they are slower.

4. 04

   Know roughly what you brought

   You do not need to be an expert. A simple list — silver dollars, a few proofs, a bag of wheat cents — helps. “I have no idea, you tell me” on a mixed box is fine once. It is harder when the box is huge and you cannot say what you want out of the visit.

5. 05

   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.