Storing Your Collection

Keep coins cool and dry

Sharp changes in temperature and moisture cause discoloration that devalues coins. Avoid talking directly over coins; tiny droplets of saliva can also create spots on a coin. Just like fingerprints, these marks are difficult to remove.

Use original holders

All modern coin sets and coins should be bought and sold in original cases and capsules. The Mint sells coin sets in protective plastic cases called lenses or in folders. Individual coins are packaged in capsules fitted into folders or boxes.

In addition to original holders, other storage options include:

• 2" x 2" cardboard or plastic holders
• Plastic tubes or capsules
• Sleeves or envelopes
• Albums

For high-value coins, use hard plastic holders. Professional coin grading services use sealed holders called slabs to protect authenticated and graded coins. Use acid-free cardboard and plastic holders free from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Acid and PVC can ruin a coin’s surface. PVC eventually coats a coin with sticky green slime.

Save documentation

Some coins and coin sets come with a certificate of authenticity and/or an information card.

Keep them safe

A safe-deposit box at a bank is ideal. If you have a home collection, ensure that your home insurance covers full replacement costs. Source

What Would YOU Do If You Found a Huge Gold Nugget

 

Imagine You are out prospecting – maybe with your metal detector. You get a sound that is loud, and dig down and it gets hugely loud. You guess that it's maybe an old can or a horseshoe. But you dig it and it’s a big massive piece of gold. Alright, well done! What do you do next? Think it can't happen? think again. 

Can You Make a Living Just Panning Gold!?

 

 

Join us as we explore the new gold rush sweeping the nation! With record-breaking gold prices and advances in prospecting technology, the hunt is on! From amateur enthusiasts to seasoned prospectors, everyone's eager to strike it rich.

This episode is focused on using a hand dredge to clean out a section of bedrock that is producing big chunky gold! You will not believe how much money I made from this one spot in just 8 hours!

Why Are Some Coins Magnetic?

Coins are made of different materials, which is why some are magnetic, and others aren't. The most common metal in coins is copper, which is not magnetic. Other metals commonly used in coins, such as aluminum and nickel, are not magnetic. However, some coins do contain magnetic metals such as iron and steel. These metals are commonly used in the manufacture of coins for various reasons. For example, iron and steel are strong and durable, making long-lasting coins. They are also easy to produce, which helps to keep the cost of making coins down.

Why Are Some Coins Magnetic?

One of the main reasons some coins are magnetic is the metal they are made of. Iron and steel are magnetic, so if a coin contains these metals, it will be attracted to a magnet. This is why some older coins, such as pennies, are magnetic, while others, such as dimes and quarters, are not.

Another reason why some coins are magnetic is because of the way they are made. In some cases, coins may be made by stamping a piece of metal with a design, which can cause the metal to become magnetized. This is because stamping the metal can create tiny magnetic fields within the metal itself.

Which Coins Are Magnetic and Which Are Not?

As mentioned earlier, coins can be magnetic for two main reasons: the metal they are made of and the way they are made. So, which coins are magnetic and which are not? Pennies and some older coins are magnetic because they contain iron or steel. Dimes, quarters, and most modern coins are not magnetic because they are made of non-magnetic metals. It is also possible for any coin to become magnetized if it is stamped during the manufacturing process.

In other countries, other magnetic coins may contain iron or steel. While nickel is a magnetic metal, standard United States coins do not contain enough nickel to make them magnetic. Even the five-cent coin, commonly known as a "nickel," is only 25% nickel, with the remaining 75% being copper. As a result, the United States five-cent coins are not magnetic despite their nickel composition.

In other countries, such as Canada and Great Britain, many coins are made from magnetic metals like steel and nickel. In Canada, for example, many of the coins minted since 2000, including the 1 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 25 cent, and 50 cent coins, are made from steel and are, therefore, magnetic. In Great Britain, the 1 and 2 pence coins struck since 1992 are made from a steel alloy and are also magnetic.

There are many other examples of magnetic coins from around the world. However, it is important to remember that these are typically base metal coins with little intrinsic value. Some coins are magnetic because they contain iron or steel, while others may become magnetized during manufacturing. It is always worth checking if a coin is magnetic by using a magnet, as it can give you a clue about the metal it is made of and how it was manufactured.

Source

Why Are Coins Round?

Have you ever paused while handling loose change and wondered, “Why are coins round?” Throughout history, cultures separated by oceans, mountains, and vast deserts have independently minted coins yet curiously arrived at the same basic shape: a circle. But why did humanity collectively agree upon the round coin, and why have we still stuck with it? 

The Natural Shape of Money: Historical Roots 

The first metal coins emerged centuries ago, and simple physical forces primarily determined their shape. Ancient people first minted coins by striking heated lumps of electrum between two hard surfaces. Imagine a ball of Play-Doh on the table. If you hammer it flat with another hard object, the dough naturally spreads out into a shape with rounded edges. This is similar to how ancient coins were minted without a collar. The precious metals would form into a round, albeit imperfect, shape.  

The Power of the Portrait 

As coinage spread, rulers and influential figures quickly saw coins as an opportunity to communicate power and authority. Portraits of leaders and symbols of nations became standard. A circular shape was ideal for clearly presenting detailed imagery or inscriptions without corners or edges cutting into essential design elements. Thus, the portraiture and symbolism engraved on coins reinforced the circular shape as the preferred standard. 

Practicality of Modern Minting Processes 

Modern technology might lead you to believe we can effortlessly create coins in virtually any shape—squares, hexagons, or even more intricate designs. While technically possible, round coins remain dominant due to practical considerations: 

• Efficiency and Consistency: Round coins allow for high-speed, efficient minting with even pressure distribution, ensuring consistent quality. 
• Durability: Coins with sharp corners or edges would quickly wear down and become damaged in circulation. 
• Handling and Counting: Round coins roll, stack, and sort more easily than other shapes, simplifying commercial transactions, storage, automated handling, and counting processes.  
• Convenient Size: Round coins use less material and take up less space than a square piece.  

Commerce and Circulation: Why Round Makes Sense 

Round coins have always been ideal for commerce and circulation. Businesses appreciate the convenience of coins that stack easily and roll smoothly, simplifying daily transactions and storage. Today, round coins function seamlessly in automated coin-handling systems like vending machines and coin-counting equipment, making everyday business transactions more efficient and error-free. 

Preventing Coin Clipping: Why Round is Secure 

Historically, coins made from precious metals tempted unscrupulous individuals to shave or clip edges, stealing small amounts of precious metal. The circular shape made these illicit modifications more evident. Scientifically, a circle has the smallest perimeter relative to its area, minimizing the accessible edge for clipping. Additionally, creating milled edges (the ridges around a coin’s edge) further prevented shaving from going unnoticed. Therefore, round coins naturally lent themselves to enhanced security. 

Are All Coins Round?  

Though round coins dominate, the world still holds fascinating exceptions where functionality, uniqueness, or aesthetic considerations have inspired alternative shapes. 

• Square coins
• Hexagonal Coins
• Scalloped Coins
• Triangular Coins
• Octagonal Coins 
• Holed-Center Coins 
• Nonagonal Coins
• Decagonal Coins 

Source

WILDLY HIGH APPRAISALS! (Sellers Shocked at Huge Profits) | Pawn Stars

 

These sellers are happily surprised at these super high appraisals! See more in this compilation from Pawn Stars. 

What is the Purpose of Cufflinks?

Cufflinks serve an old-world function beyond their aesthetic brilliance. They were initially curated to hold the cuffs of a dress shirt together. The design was simple yet effective: two decorative pieces connected by a small chain or post would pass through the buttonholes on each side of the cuff, securing the sleeve. This method was far more sophisticated than the ribbons or strings that people had been using previously, and it quickly became a symbol of status and refinement. Cufflinks are like the rich man's button.

Brief History of Cufflinks 

Cufflinks were created in the 1600s out of necessity and have only flourished and spread since then. In the 19th century, with the advent of industrialization, cufflinks became more accessible to a broader audience. Figures like Edward VII helped popularize colorful and designs in the early 1900s, expanding their appeal further.  Cufflinks saw a resurgence in the 1980s and have remained a staple in traditional male dress despite diminished prominence in the 1970s due to the rise of casual fashion. Today, people prize cufflinks chiefly for their aesthetics but still have functional appeal.

The Role of Cufflinks in Contemporary Fashion

While buttons have since become the norm, providing a quick and easy way to fasten shirts, cufflinks have retained their place in the fashion world for several reasons. For one, they offer a level of customization and personality that buttons often need to improve. Because cufflinks are not permanently attached to your shirt, you can change them to match different outfits, moods, or occasions, allowing you to express your individuality. Whether a pair of sleek, minimalist silver cufflinks for a boardroom meeting or ornate, gemstone-studded links for a black-tie event, the right cufflinks can elevate your ensemble from ordinary to extraordinary.

Cufflinks as Tradition

In addition to their role as a fashion statement, cufflinks also convey a sense of tradition and respect for the formalities of dress. Cufflinks often indicate attention to detail and a commitment to refined style, which people appreciate in many social and professional settings. They signify that you've taken the time to consider the finer points of your attire, which can make a strong impression in environments where appearance matters.

Different Types of Cufflinks

Cufflinks come in various types, each suited for different levels of formality and personal style. These include whale-back, bullet-back, stud/button, chain link, ball return, locking dual-action, knot, and fabric cufflinks, each with its unique fastening mechanism. Additionally, cufflinks can be made from various materials, including metal, glass, stone, leather, gold, and fabric. The front sections can be highly decorative, featuring gemstones, inlays, or intricate designs, often reflecting the wearer's personality or status. 

Here at Martinez Coin And Jewelry Exchange you can sell your used cufflinks that you no longer need or use! Contact us today we would love to buy your cufflinks!

What is Dental Gold?

Can I sell my gold teeth or gold crowns?  Yes, you can sell gold teeth. Gold teeth, crowns, bridges, and other dental gold items can be sold for cash, whether they are from your own dental work or from a dental office's scrap. The value depends on the gold content and weight of the item, as well as the current market price of gold. 

What is dental gold?

Dental gold is a type of precious metal alloy used in dental restorations like crowns, bridges, and fillings. It's not pure gold, but rather a combination of gold with other metals like platinum, palladium, and silver to enhance durability and strength. 

There are several options for selling dental gold, including:

• Online gold buyers: Many online companies specialize in buying dental gold and other precious metals, offering a convenient way to sell from anywhere. 
• Local gold buyers: Pawn shops and precious metal dealers in your area may also buy dental gold. 
• Refineries: Direct refineries can provide the highest returns as they have the expertise to accurately assess and process dental scrap. 

What to consider when selling?

• Gold content: Dental gold can vary in purity, typically ranging from 10-22 karats (41.7% to 91.6% gold). 
• Weight: The weight of the gold item directly impacts its value. 
• Market price: The current price of gold fluctuates, so it's important to check the spot price when selling. 
• Reputable buyers: Choose a reputable buyer with a proven track record and transparent pricing to ensure you receive a fair price, according to GoldFellow. Source

We buy gold teeth and filling at Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange! Contact us today!

3755 Alhambra Ave Ste 1

Martinez CA 94553

925-335-9500

Vallejo Coin Exchange

127 Tennessee St

Vallejo CA 94590

707-554-1754

What Are Bullion Coins?

What Are Bullion Coins?

Hearing the words “coin” and “bullion” together is a clear indicator that a discussion is about precious metals. A bullion coin is a legal-tender product that has been produced based on the weight and purity of its precious metals contents. The most common precious metals used to create bullion coins are gold and silver.

The U.S. government guarantees the weight and purity of bullion coins manufactured by the U.S. Mint. Unlike collectible coins that can’t be held in an IRA, bullion coins are primarily viewed as a way to hold precious metals like gold and silver as portfolio assets.

U.S. bullion coins, first introduced in 1986, are produced mainly at the U.S. Mint’s facility in West Point, New York. Bullion coins are also produced by government mints in Australia, Austria, Canada, China, and South Africa.

Can Bullion Coins Be Purchased From the U.S. Mint?

The U.S. Mint does not sell bullion coins directly to the public. Instead, the Mint distributes these coins through a network of official distributors known as “authorized purchasers.” Pricing for bullion coins from these distributors typically depends on the market price of the coins’ precious metals contents, plus a small premium to cover minting, distribution, and marketing costs.

Are Bullion Coins Different from Proof Coins?

Yes. While a bullion coin and its proof coin counterpart contain the same amount of a precious metal, proof coins are created using a more intricate process that results in frosty design and mirrored fields. Proof coins are also generally created in far fewer numbers than bullion coins. In addition to their precious metals content, proof coins are desired for their designs, condition, and relative scarcity, all of which may contribute to higher market prices. People often buy proof coins alongside bullion coins in the hopes of taking advantage of these additional benefits. To create the superior finish of proof coins, “proof blanks are specially treated, hand-polished, and cleaned to ensure high-quality strikes,” the U.S. Mint explains. “The blanks are then fed into presses fitted with specially polished dies and struck at least twice. The coins are then carefully packaged to showcase and preserve their exceptional finish.”

Why Should You Own Bullion Coins?

People decide to own bullion coins for many reasons. Owning bullion coins offers several advantages:

• They’re easily recognizable.
• They’re easy to trade.
• They typically sell at a higher premium than bars of the same precious metal weight.
• They are often recognized as a hedge against inflation.
• They hold intrinsic value based on their precious metals content.
• They can help diversify your portfolio.

What You May Want to Watch for When Buying Bullion Coins

While it’s almost always a good time to buy precious metals, some moments are better for buying bullion coins. When you’re ready to buy, watch for:

• Moments of market stress: Bullion coins are highly liquid assets and may be able to provide a practical means of wealth protection during periods of economic upheaval.
• When central banks are buying gold: Gold has long been a reserve asset for the world’s largest banks. When central banks buy more gold, they may be trying to increase their diversification away from paper-based assets such as the U.S. dollar—a strategy also employed by many consumers worried about the effects of inflation. Historically, gold has been negatively correlated with the U.S. dollar.
• When the U.S. dollar shows signs of weakness: Similarly, “when the dollar is weak, gold is cheaper to purchase in other currencies,” writes Philip N. Diehl, President of U.S. Money Reserve. A slumping dollar could signal an uptick in gold prices, including the price of gold bullion coins.

Source

What We Buy

Do you have coins, gold and silver, estate offerings or unwanted jewelry?

Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange and Vallejo Coin Exchange buy all types of gold and silver jewelry and coins along with old sterling silver flatware and hollowware.

We want everyone, whether you are a long time customer, a past customer or a new friend to Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange and Vallejo Coin Exchange, to research where you sell your unwanted or estate jewelry. Many businesses are new or are traveling through, visiting hotels and flea markets. Come see us at Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange or Vallejo Coin Exchange for an honest hassle-free appraisal from a local company that has been in business for over 4 decades.

We buy all forms of scrap gold and silver based on the current market price. We also buy and sell all types of U.S. coins and paper money as well as some foreign coin.

Our buying process is completely transparent. We tell you exactly what you have and break it down in an easily understandable way. We don’t try to confuse you or hide any information. When selling your valuables, you want a trusted, reputable and honest dealer, such as Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange and Vallejo Coin Exchange, who pay top dollar.

Martinez Coin & Jewelry Exchange and Vallejo Coin Exchange are always buying collections of all sizes; no matter how big or small. As the area’s most distinguished and trusted dealer since 1979, we pay honest and fair prices and you receive payment on the spot. Furthermore, we make sure all clients are treated equally.

Some of the items we buy: If your item is not listed here, just ask! We may be able to work with you!

• Gold Watches
• Pocket Watches
• Sterling Flatware
• US Coins
• Gold & Silver Foreign Coins
• Bullion
• Bracelets
• Earrings
• Chains
• Broken or Damaged
• Jewelry
• Charms/Pendants
• Rings
• Cuff Links
• Silver Jewelry
• Gold Teeth