Coin Shop Vs. Online

Online...I only buy certified coins from PCGS, NGC, ANACS or ICG. I tried a few raw coins and even after deducting a few MS points or full grades, I still was NOT happy. So...I will NEVER buy raw coins on line ( ebay) again. NEVER! Too many fakes, too much whizzing, too much dippinig, it is a RAW deal.

Dealers/Shops...through my travels I like to look up and visit the local dealers. I put together a mental list of who and who NOT to see over the years. Sometimes I buy raw coins from them and sometimes I don't. I finally "matured" enough that I don't necessarily HAVE TO BUY a coin when I walk into a coin shop...just because I walked into a shop.

Shows...there is where patience and saving/budgeting coin-spending money has paid off. First, if you pay with cash and you are at a show, you have more bargaining power. If you don't see it at one table, chances are you may see it at another...maybe less expensive! Second, the quality of coins are many times better than a single coin shop. Third, you can hold and see the coin yourself. Fourth, you can take advantage of the TPG's that display at these shows and ask them their "opinion". This has saved me a bunch!!

Conclusion...save and try to go to a decent size coin show. The prices are better, the quality is better, and you WILL have a good time meeting and talking with other coin nerds like us.