When examining a potential purchase, do you cleary think about what you'd pay for the coin and then

SethChandler

Do you ask the price first, then start looking at the coin?

Lakesammman

or gotta have it, screw the price....

coinguy1

Seth, there is definitely some strategy that can be used here.

If you ask the price first (before you look at the coin), the seller might not be as likely to know that you are really interested in it. In fact, one you look closely, you might not have any interest. But, if you look first and then ask for a price, you've possibly tipped your hand/level of interest a bit more obviously.

I realize that, depending upon the particular seller and/or the coin, the above might not make any difference. And, in some cases it's much more efficient to look and then ask. But, in case it can make a difference in your favor.....


PS - please keep this "secret" strategy just between us.

RYK

Coin first...Dad always said, "If you have to ask how much it is, you cannot afford it."

Russ

I always evaluate, decide on a ballpark number the coin is worth to me, then ask the price. If it's a coin I'm buying to resell, part of the equation is what I think it will bring, so the "worth to me" part is going to be stupidly low. If it's one I want for my own stash, what I'm willing to pay becomes more realistic.

Russ, NCNE

Steve27

I always have a price in my head before I ask. The good dealers have clearly marked prices so you don't have to ask.

Jaywalker

Interesting tip, Mark. If you ask the price before you show any interest, the dealer is still in the mode of "I need to make this coin attractive to him," and might be inclined to make the price more attractive.

Thanks.

Elcontador

Seth,

If the price of the coin is over melt value, it is irrelevant if I don't like the coin. First I look at the
coin, and then decide what I am willing to pay for it. Before looking at it to begin with, I know
my ballpark range for it.

If a dealer wants more than what I am willing to pay, I pass. Very few coins out there "have my name
on them."

Wondo

I always think my drooling and/or heart monitor gives away my intentions.





Edited to say: I decide if I want the coin first; then I check price.