The family will be headed out to the Bay Area of California later this month and I'd really appreciate hearing from any folks that are on this list from that part of the country. Are there any coin stores in the area that you'd recommend? "Family friendly" would be a plus, as would the more immediate San Jose area. I'll be checking the web as well but that's not the same as a more personal view Also, what is the sales tax situation out there? I assume that it's collected... I can't think of anything I didn't pay tax on when I've been out there before... Thanks in advance for any help!
I'm not familiar with the San Jose coin community, but both San Jose and Palo Alto have well-established coin clubs. I think they have junior clubs as well. I bet they could point you toward some Thalia-friendly shops. (Although I can't imagine anyone being snarky to your daughter, I'd hate to steer you to an ogre.) Another CT member recommended Don's Village Coins in SF to me, with the caveat that he's gruff until he gets used to you. I've had a hilarious string of misadventures trying to bead him in his lair, so if you actually spot the man, let me know. He's at 2536 Ocean Ave, near 19th Ave and Junipero Serra Blvd. (415) 584-2515. If you decide to go, I highly recommend talking to him first. He deals only in U.S. coins & world gold. Let me know if you need any suggestions for places to eat/things to do in the East Bay or SF. You probably have that covered, though... Marianne
Thanks for the lead, Marianne. I have enough time to try to get in touch with the coin clubs in SJ and PA before we get there. The coin dealer you mention sounds like some of the model train dealers I have encountered in my travels...
I'm the one who mentioned Dons coinworld in SF.Dan who runs the shop is a good guy and honest but he Takes a lot of time off, especially during the summer months. I wouldn't call him gruff, more reserved until he gets to know people. If you’re traveling from any distance, call to make sure he's open. As far as I know it's the only stand alone coin shop within the city limits of SF. I’ve also done business with a coin shop on 4th street in San Raphel(Marin County), the thing I have found about these small shops is that the keep very sporadic hours and tend to work short day's (noon-4). Hey I don't blame them I would do the same given the option.
Thanks, Silver Surfer. San Rafael may be an interesting lead... I am going to be visiting a friend there one day during the trip. I will definitely be calling first in any case. "Flexible hours" do seem to occur in the summer among smaller establishments; the same is true for some model train shops I know. I agree, it's hard to blame them especially when the nice weather means slower business.
