Question 1

What coins should I be looking for to determine if I have anything of value?

Accepted Answer

We’ve provided a list below to help you sort through coins and paper money that may have value, versus ones that are just face value.

If you have coins/currency that falls into the dates we have listed, they should have more value than face value but condition matters as to how much more.

In most cases, anything newer than the ones we have listed are only worth face value, and we are not interested in purchasing these coins/currency. There are a few exceptions, such as if it’s a special silver mint or proof. There are some legitimate error coins but it would be fairly obvious and they are extremely rare. We don’t really deal in error coins so if you think you have one, please send us a picture via text or email.

US Coins and Currency

Pennies: 1933 or older

Nickels: 1942 – 1945 silver nickels, or 1939 or older

Dimes: 1964 and older (these are 90% silver)

Quarters: 1964 and older (these are 90% silver)

Half-Dollars: 
-1965 – 1970 Kennedy Half Dollars are 40% silver and worth more than 1971+.
-1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are 90% silver. 
-1963 and older.

Dollars (coin): 1935 and older. We aren’t interested in Ike dollars as most are just worth face value.

Paper Bills from US – Any currency of any denomination with red, blue, or brown ink. Green ink is modern and we’re not interested in that.

Foreign coins don’t all fall in the same category but typically 1964 and older are good.

Foreign paper is tougher to determine quickly, but as a rule of thumb anything pre WW2 (1945) and older.

Reminder, condition matters for collectibility (numismatic value).

Question 2

What type of jewelry or metals do you buy?

Accepted Answer

We’re interest in gold items that are 10k – 24K. Pretty much any type of gold, such as tie tacks, pendants, chains, dental fillings, rings, etc.

In terms of silver, we are interested in sterling silver items, whether rings, necklaces, flatware, bowls, salt and pepper shakers, etc.

Question 3

Are the eBay prices I looked up legit?

Accepted Answer

The key to looking on eBay is sorting by “sold” prices, not by “active” listings. People can list anything for any value and they try and trick people into believing what they have is incredibly rare. The condition also matters.

Here’s how to search by sold items on eBay:
Search for an item as you normally would and when the results come up, on the left column, go down to “show only” and click on “sold”. Then you’ll see sold prices. If an item had an offer on it and sold for lower than the asking price, you won’t see the deal they made but you’ll know it’s lower than the asking price. You’ll see the price crossed out in green and then below it, it will say best offer accepted. Otherwise, if you see the price not crossed out in green, that is what it was sold for.

If you're on the eBay app, you should just be able to click "filter" and select "sold listings".

Question 4

Do I need an appointment to come in? And will in cost me anything?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you need an appointment and no it won't cost you anything. We’ve recently switched to appointment only so you can have our full attention and privacy. You can book your appointment here: https://www.cccx1010.com/appointment

Question 5

I can’t seem to make it during your standard hours of 11am-3pm on Monday – Friday, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

Give us a call or text at 805-440-4040, and we’ll be happy to arrange a special appointment at a more convenient time.

Question 6

Should I clean my coins?

Accepted Answer

Easy answer...NO! Do not attempt to clean or polish your coins.. Coins in good condition with original patina are typically worth more money.  For more information on how to care for your coins, CLICK HERE .

Question 7

I just inherited a coin collection, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

It all depends on what you wish to do with your collection.

First, to save us both time, before you schedule and appointment or call us, double check the first FAQ on this page regarding value of coins to see if you have coins of value. If you believe you do, feel free to book an appointment.

For Appraisals:

Small Collections: You can email or text us a description and some photos. We’ll review the details and assist you with the appraisal process. Small collections can be defined as a couple of average sized boxes or less.

Large Collections: Please call or email us with an overview of the collection’s size and contents. We’ll discuss whether we can handle the appraisal at no cost or if a fee will apply. Large collections can be defined as several decent sized boxes or more. If you can't carry it in one trip, it's a large collection.

For Selling:
If you’re looking to sell your collection, we can provide an estimate of what to expect when selling to a dealer. We may also make you an offer on the spot.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to get started! To book an appointment, CLICK HERE.

Question 8

How long have you been doing this?

Accepted Answer

Officially in business since 1979, but my passion for collecting began long before that in my childhood. What started as a personal hobby has evolved into a lifelong pursuit and profession.

Central Coast Coin Exxchange

Frequently Asked Questions