Lost Cities Beads

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Lost Cities Beads in San Diego, CA. 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 walk in at closing with a suitcase

   Five minutes to close is time to pick up a hold, not to dump an estate. Large lots take time to weigh, look up, and talk through. Call earlier in the day and ask when they can give you a proper look. A shop that is locking the door still has to balance the register and get home.

2. 02

   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.

3. 03

   Cameras and a locked door are normal

   Buzz-in doors, counters, and cameras protect the shop and the people in it. They are not aimed at you personally. Follow the house rules. If you are asked to wait to be let in, wait. That is a well-run store, not a cold shoulder.

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

   If you are getting another offer, say so up front

   On a large lot it is fair to hear more than one shop. Tell them. A good dealer would rather know than spend an hour and find out you were only using them for a number. Do not treat a courtesy look as free inventory research for the next counter the same afternoon.