Premier Precious Metals

Collector notes

Visiting a coin shop

A few notes before you walk into Premier Precious Metals in Santa Fe, NM. 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

   Insurance and probate need different paperwork

   If a lawyer, an executor, or an insurer sent you, say so. Bring what papers you have. The shop may not be the appraiser you need, and they will tell you. That honesty is useful. It is better than leaving with the wrong kind of number.

2. 02

   Regulars get easier visits because they are known

   Introduce yourself. Come back. Pay as you said you would. The second visit is almost always smoother than the first. A local shop is a relationship, not a vending machine. That works in your favor when you have something unusual.

3. 03

   Check hours before you drive

   Listings show hours when the shop has shared them. They still change for lunch, shows, and appointments. If you are coming from across town, call or look at the hours on this page. A two-minute check beats a locked door.

4. 04

   Tell them if a coin is damaged, cleaned, or already graded

   Hiding a problem wastes time and trust. “This one was cleaned” or “this already came back from PCGS” is useful. Dealers would rather adjust than feel tricked. Honesty on the small things makes the rest of the visit easier.

5. 05

   Bring coins in a way they can actually look at them

   Trays, albums, and labeled bags beat a torn grocery sack. Do not pour coins onto glass. Hand them a box they can work through. Dirt, food, and loose batteries in the same tin make a poor first impression and a slower look.