I see this topic very frequently on this board. Building a relationship with your dealer is a lot like building your collection. Do your homework. Take into consideration the type of collection that you are building. Often dealers will specialize in certain areas of the coin market. Most dealers are willing to help you in your quest. Make them your inside connection. Use them not only for building your collection, but also for building your numismatic knowledge. They are a valuable source of information. They can assist you in authentication, certification, and the buying and selling of your collection. Most offer some form of a wantlist program. This is a valuable tool that is too frequently overlooked by most collectors. Often dealers will set aside coins for customers that they know. This will allow you access to coins that the average customer will never know about. Most will also offer better buy/sell prices to a known customer. Look at their return policies, shipping and handling, and guarantees. This should be an important factor in choosing your dealer. It is also an area that is often overlooked. An educated customer is the best customer. Once you have developed your relationship, share this information with others in the hobby. Especially the new collector. Too many new collectors are lost due to lack of information. Don't assume that because we live in the information era, that everyone knows where to look. Education and knowledge are best when shared.
Well sir, as a dealer it is not only our responsibility to educate others, but for the staff and I, it is our honor. Thank you for the kind words.
You should see the actual coin. It is a piece that we just aquired. It will be included with several more coins that we have submitted for the ANA auction this march in Oregon.
