When it comes to selling gold coins or bars, selecting the wrong buyer can lead to poor returns—or worse, scams. Many private sellers make mistakes by trusting vague online offers or accepting low valuations without proper verification. To avoid problems, it’s important to watch for clear warning signs.

These red flags suggest the buyer may not be acting in good faith:

• No clear contact information – Trustworthy buyers provide names, emails, phone numbers, and verifiable addresses.
• Avoidance of written offers – A refusal to provide a written estimate or invoice may indicate dishonesty.
• Lack of credentials or affiliations – Reliable buyers may be part of recognized numismatic associations or maintain transparent public records.
• Overly aggressive negotiation – Pressure to sell on the spot or accept a “limited time” offer often benefits the buyer, not you.
• Unwillingness to explain prices – A good buyer explains how they arrived at the appraisal figure.

To protect yourself:

• Always research the buyer before setting a meeting.
• Avoid deals that feel rushed or unclear.
• Keep records of all correspondence and agreements.

A reliable rare coin dealer Paterson sellers can depend on will take the time to answer your questions and respect your need for due diligence. If something feels off, you have every right to seek a second opinion. Protecting your collection starts with recognizing who’s trustworthy and who isn’t.

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