William S. Panitch, Inc.

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into William S. Panitch, Inc. in Albany, 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

   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

   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.

4. 04

   A buy offer is not an appraisal

   An offer is what this shop will pay today. An appraisal is a written opinion, often for insurance or an estate, and it is a different service. If you need a document, say that first. Do not treat a verbal number as a formal appraisal.

5. 05

   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.