Fox Valley Coin Exchange

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Fox Valley Coin Exchange in Kimberly, WI. 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

   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.

2. 02

   Ask before you touch anything in the case

   The dealer will hand you a coin or put it on a pad. Do not reach into a tray or slide a slab toward yourself. Handle coins by the edges if they are raw. If you drop something, say so immediately.

3. 03

   If there is a card or check policy, they will tell you

   Do not guess at percentages. Do not argue from what another shop does. Ask what this shop does, listen, and decide. Policies differ for a reason. The honest move is a straight question, not a speech about “what everyone else charges.”

4. 04

   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.

5. 05

   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.