Should dealers make an offer over the phone?

Touchdown

I have called some dealers on some common coins they deal in. I let them know the coin and the grade by the 2 TPG's. But, some say they have to look at it first to make an offer. I explain, o.k let's say it is the most amazing coin in the world for the grade what would you pay? They still give me the same response. I need to see it.

I think it would be best to just give me an estimate. If, their highest price offered over the phone is still too low, then I can just say no and save each others time and trouble. Or, are they just doing this hoping to low ball you once the coin is in their possesion?

Any opinions

markglicker

It is tough to make an offer over the phone. It takes an effort to look up prices, so the dealer wants you to show that you are serious about selling. Secondly, if he offers a lower sight unseen price, you will probably go elsewhere.

mrearlygold

Depends, but usually not

kranky

<< <i> I explain, o.k let's say it is the most amazing coin in the world for the grade what would you pay? They still give me the same response. I need to see it. >>



The reason that won't work is that they are aware the odds of it being the most amazing coin in the world for the grade are next to nothing. So if they quote a price, then have to lower it when they see the coin in hand (because it's NOT the most amazing), sellers get angry.

All they can do is quote a lowball price because you're asking for a buy price on a sight-unseen deal. And there are some real ugly coins out there, even in top-tier holders.

roadrunner

One can offer a generic sight unseen price on common gold, commems, Morgans, etc. and be ok. But once you get away from generics it's pretty hard. One can provide a range, but it would be typically huge...such as gem Bust halves: from $3200 to $8500.

Most don't make offers. Even if you give a reasonable price, seller "X" may still shop it around before even stopping by. And if he still has it, do you really want it then after others have passed on it?

roadrunner

WTCG

Everybody sees coins differently. A coin that is amazing to you may be mediocre in somebody else's eyes. That is why dealers need to see the coin in question. Most dealers can provide an estimate over the telephone, but those estimates will always be below the sellers' expectations.

JSsson

I agree that different people will have different opinions on the same coin, so a coin that you may think is the best possible look for its grade may be low end to someone else. Dealers understandably cannot make an offer on a coin that you feel is nice for the grade because it may not be to the dealer's mind.

Saying that they need to see the coin is probably the fairest answer that they can give you.