When venturing into the realm of online coin pricing, it becomes crucial to discern between three distinct categories: real-world pricing, wishful-thinking pricing, and clickbait pricing. Navigating the vast expanse of the internet, coin sellers often encounter challenges in finding accurate and reliable coin prices due to the prevalence of wishful-thinking and clickbait pricing.

Wishful-Thinking Pricing emerges from sellers’ personal aspirations and desires for how much they would like to receive for a particular item. These instances often manifest as seemingly random listings on platforms like Etsy, eBay, or other easily accessible websites, where exorbitant price tags are attached to coins. However, such listings rarely result in successful sales, often remaining stagnant or available for years on end. Wishful-thinking pricing is usually a consequence of ignorance, excessive optimism, or even a jest. Unfortunately, these inflated prices can cause confusion, particularly for individuals new to the process of selling coins. It is worth noting that even renowned pricing references like the Red Book can sometimes fall victim to wishful-thinking pricing.

Clickbait Pricing, as defined by Wikipedia, revolves around web content aimed at generating online advertising revenue, often at the expense of quality or accuracy. Clickbait employs sensationalist headlines to entice readers to click through to the next stage of the bait. Clickbait creators frequently exploit the allure of potential high-value discoveries, especially regarding common coins, which, in reality, rarely hold substantial monetary worth.

Contrasting these speculative pricing approaches, Real World Pricing reflects the actual transactions and exchanges of money within the market. It represents the true market value, substantiated by real transactions rather than mere advertised claims. Identifying real world pricing becomes essential, particularly for those who have inherited a coin collection or are seeking accurate valuations. At Oakton Coins & Collectibles, we strive to provide you with the most reliable real world pricing available, leveraging our expertise and extensive market knowledge to ensure accurate evaluations.

In your pursuit of coin prices online, it is crucial to discern between wishful-thinking, clickbait, and real world pricing. Emphasizing the importance of real world pricing, we encourage you to seek accurate and substantiated market values, especially when dealing with inherited collections or valuable coins. Oakton Coins & Collectibles is committed to assisting you in obtaining the best real world pricing possible, enabling you to make informed decisions and navigate the world of coin selling with confidence.

We want to make it easy for you to do business with us and receive the highest amount of money when you sell gold from Evanston.

Skokie/Evanston-based Evanston Coins has a staff boasting over 30 years of experience in the retail and jewelry / coin business. Our Evanston gold buyers can answer your every question about the process immediately, with no obligation to sell, and you can trust us to offer you the best price for gold, silver, and jewelry in Skokie/Evanston.

Walk-in customers are welcome any time; however, if you have a large collection we recommend you schedule an appointment with Evanston Coins – one of the most trusted companies that sells gold in Skokie, Rogers Park, and Evanston.

If you’re hiding your unwanted gold, silver, or platinum under your mattress or in drawers in the back of your closet, why not sell that gold in Evanston? Evanston Coins in Evanston/Skokie was created in response to consumers’ requests to sell their unwanted gold, silver, and jewelry. Our mission is to create a transparent and trusting environment where our customers receive the highest cash payout.

Our goal is always to give you the best price for your gold or precious metals; we regularly make the highest offers for jewelry in Evanston.

YOUR GOLD & PRECIOUS METALS EXPERTS

We know that oftentimes the items that our clients want to sell have more than just “gold” or “scrap” value, which is why we always look at and evaluate jewelry as a piece that can be resold or auctioned. We have been fortunate enough to appraise many beautiful pieces of jewelry, and while it may take a little longer to analyze these items than if we simply offered  “cash for gold,” this process allows us to determine the full value of jewelry, which can mean more money in your pocket.

SELLING YOUR GOLD & PRECIOUS METALS FOR GOLD VALUE

Much of the time our clients think they can only get the “gold value” for a piece of jewelry. At Evanston Oakton Coins & Collectibles we always thoroughly evaluate your jewelry; oftentimes they are worth much more than “scrap value.” If you do decide to sell your items for their gold value, our Evanston technicians will work with you to guide you through every step of the appraisal process.

If you ever have any questions or need additional information, our trained Evanston technicians are always available. We understand that this is often a new and complex process with many different factors to take into consideration.

Please feel free to contact us today for more information.

If you’re someone who’s been holding onto gold and other precious metals, it’s time to consider selling them. There are several reasons why it could be a smart financial move to do so.

Firstly, gold and other precious metals can be highly volatile in value. While they can provide a safe haven for investors during times of economic uncertainty, the price can fluctuate wildly. This means that holding onto them can be a risky proposition, especially if you need to access the funds quickly.

Secondly, selling your gold and other precious metals can provide you with a significant financial cushion. Depending on the value of your holdings, selling them could potentially provide you with a substantial amount of money. This can be especially beneficial if you have unexpected expenses or if you’re looking to invest in other areas.

Thirdly, if you’re holding onto gold or other precious metals as part of your investment portfolio, it might be time to reassess your strategy. While they can be a valuable component of a well-diversified portfolio, it’s important to consider the potential risks and rewards. Selling some or all of your holdings could be a smart move, especially if you’re looking to invest in other areas that may provide more long-term value.

Finally, if you’re holding onto gold and other precious metals for sentimental reasons, it’s important to consider whether the sentimental value outweighs the financial benefits of selling. While it can be difficult to let go of items that have sentimental value, it’s important to consider whether they’re providing you with any real value beyond the emotional attachment.

In conclusion, selling gold and other precious metals can be a smart financial move for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re looking to generate extra cash, reassess your investment strategy, support a charitable cause, or simply declutter your life, selling your holdings could be the right choice for you. So why not take a closer look at your portfolio and see if selling your gold and other precious metals could provide you with the financial benefits you need?

WE HELP YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR PIECES AROUND EVANSTON

Our experienced Evanston technicians will handle your priceless jewelry with respect, and they will work with you through the appraisal process so you are informed every step of the way. We assess estate jewelry for its intrinsic worth as well as its aesthetic value, desirability, and workmanship. As a buyer with more than 20 years of experience in jewelry trading in Evanston, we work to ensure that you receive the highest return for your pieces. We base the value of your items on the current market, meaning that we assess and evaluate what similar items on the market are currently being sold for.

We specialize in signed pieces, which are worth a premium, and regularly purchase brands including:

• Tiffany & Co.
• David Yurman
• Cartier
• Bvlgari

Signatures on pieces like these are often missed, which is why it is so important to bring your jewelry to a certified and experienced jewelry buyer who can properly examine the piece in person. Please contact us today!

From diamond engagement rings to valuable antique jewelry, Evanston Jewelry Buyer is the best place to sell jewelry in Evanston, Skokie, and Chicago. Conducting business on a platform of integrity, honesty, and superior customer service, we take pride in having become the personal jewelry buyer of choice for so many clients in the Evanston / Skokie area.

During your online research, you undoubtedly have found various businesses (both in Evanston and online) who purchase previously-owned jewelry such as diamond engagement rings, antique gemstone jewelry, and other valuable estate jewelry. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know who to contact, especially since this may be the first time you have ever tried to sell your fine jewelry or a luxury watch in the Evanston area.

One quick and easy way to find out if Evanston Jewelry Buyer truly is the best place to sell jewelry in the Evanston area is to simply visit us today for a free, no-obligation verbal appraisal of your fine jewelry or timepiece. Then compare our quote and friendly customer service with other Evanston jewelry buyers, pawn shops, or estate buyers who offer free cash quotations.

If you have estate jewelry lying around that you no longer wear, it might be time to consider selling it. There are several good reasons why selling estate jewelry can be a smart financial move.

Firstly, estate jewelry can be highly valuable. Depending on the quality and condition of the pieces you have, you could potentially fetch a high price for them. This can be especially true if the jewelry is vintage or has a unique design. By selling your estate jewelry, you can potentially turn something that’s just sitting in a drawer into a significant amount of cash.

Secondly, selling estate jewelry can be a smart way to declutter your home. If you’re someone who’s been holding onto old family heirlooms or pieces that you no longer wear, selling them can be a great way to free up space in your home. This can make your living space feel more organized and simplified, and can even provide you with a sense of relief and freedom.

Thirdly, selling estate jewelry can be a good financial move if you’re looking to invest in other areas. If you’re someone who’s interested in real estate, stocks, or other investments, selling your estate jewelry can provide you with the funds you need to get started. This can be a smart way to diversify your investments and potentially generate more long-term value.

Fourthly, selling estate jewelry can be a way to honor the memory of a loved one. If you’ve inherited estate jewelry from a family member or friend who has passed away, selling it can be a way to remember them and honor their legacy. You can use the funds generated from the sale to support a cause that was important to them or to invest in something that would have made them proud.

Selling estate jewelry around Evanston can be a smart financial move for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re looking to generate extra cash, simplify your life, invest in other areas, honor the memory of a loved one, or support a charitable cause, selling your estate jewelry could be the right choice for you. So why not take a closer look at the estate jewelry you have and see if it’s time to sell? You might be surprised at how much value you have just sitting in your jewelry box.

As your trusted diamond expert, Oakton Coins & Collectibles takes pride in being one of the premier diamond buyers in the Evanston area. When you choose to sell your diamonds to us, you can be confident that our team of highly skilled professionals will meticulously examine and evaluate your precious stones to determine their highest value. Our expertise lies in assessing a diamond’s essential characteristics, commonly referred to as the four C’s: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Additionally, we consider factors such as intrinsic value, shape, and certification.

Throughout the evaluation process, our dedicated team will serve as your knowledgeable guides, offering valuable insights and assistance. We carefully take into account the historical significance, craftsmanship, and market desirability of your diamonds and diamond jewelry to arrive at the best possible price. To ensure transparency, we also review the weekly price list for diamonds, a globally recognized pricing reference. This collaborative approach allows our customers to gain a deeper understanding of how and why we have determined a specific price for their diamonds.

When you reach out to Oakton Coins & Collectibles with a detailed description of your diamonds or diamond jewelry, we will initiate the assessment procedure promptly. If available, it can be beneficial to provide the certification of your diamond as well.

We prioritize confidentiality in every transaction. Rest assured that all dealings are kept strictly confidential, and we will discuss our offer to purchase your diamonds before commencing the payment process. At Oakton Coins & Collectibles, we guarantee a secure, insured, and seamless transaction from start to finish, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the entire process.

Whether you are looking to sell diamonds, diamond engagement rings, or diamond jewelry, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Place your trust in Oakton Coins & Collectibles, and allow our expertise and commitment to excellence to facilitate a smooth and rewarding selling experience for your diamonds.

Oakton Coins is conveniently located right near 94 West (Kennedy) near downtown Skokie (very close to Chicago), and less than two blocks from the Oakton stop on the Yellow Line CTA (Skokie Swift). It is within minutes of downtown Chicago, Rogers Park, Evanston, Lincolnwood, Niles, Park Ridge, Deerfield, Morton Grove, Des Plaines, Glencoe, Highland Park, Glenview, Northbrook, Elk Grove Village, Naperville, Northfield, Northbrook, Palatine, Arlington Heights, Barrington, Brookfield, Elmhurst, Franklin Park, Glencoe, Highland Park, Hoffman Estates, La Grange, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lincolnshire, Lombard, Oak Brook, Oak Park, Prospect Heights, Wheaton, Wheeling, Winnetka, Portage park, Forest Glen and Schaumburg.

Oakton Coins is Evanston’s most trusted authority on coins, and precious metals. Oakton Coins & Collectibles – Buying and selling all collectible coins / paper money (U.S. and world), all forms of gold & silver, bullion, estate jewelry, militaria, and more. We are Evanston’s leading coin and gold buyer, with a reputation for integrity, honesty, and high level of expertise. Established in 2014, we have consistently maintained a legacy of friendly, superior service with our many loyal and satisfied customers. Our services include buying and selling U.S. and world coins (including gold, platinum, silver and more) and gold and precious metal in all forms including bullion coins, bars, and sterling silver. We also buy and sell U.S. and world stamps and postal history; fine, estate, and diamond jewelry; unwanted or damaged jewelry; wrist and pocket watches; paper currency; tokens, and metals. Our Evanston professionals are estate specialists and certified appraisers who perform appraisals for individuals, estates, trusts, banks, and attorneys. We offer direct purchase or consignment as well as specialized auction services to handle all aspects of liquidation. We also handle various types of collectibles in other areas. If you have a coin collection sitting around in Evanston that you no longer enjoy or use, it might be time to consider selling it. There are several reasons why selling your coin collection can be a smart financial move. Firstly, coin collections can be highly valuable. Depending on the rarity and condition of the coins in your collection, you could potentially fetch a high price for them. This can be especially true if you have coins that are considered rare or in high demand. By selling your coin collection, you can potentially turn something that’s just sitting in a drawer into a significant amount of cash. Secondly, selling your coin collection can be a good way to invest in other areas. If you’re someone who’s interested in real estate, stocks, or other investments, selling your coin collection can provide you with the funds you need to get started. This can be a smart way to diversify your investments and potentially generate more long-term value. Thirdly, selling your coin collection can be a way to simplify your life. If you’re someone who’s been holding onto a coin collection for years but no longer has an interest in it, selling it can be a great way to free up space in your home. This can make your living space feel more organized and simplified, and can even provide you with a sense of relief and freedom. Finally, selling your coin collection can be a way to honor the memory of a loved one. If you’ve inherited a coin collection from a family member or friend who has passed away, selling it can be a way to remember them and honor their legacy. You can use the funds generated from the sale to support a cause that was important to them or to invest in something that would have made them proud. In conclusion, selling your coin collection in Evanston can be a smart financial move for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re looking to generate extra cash, simplify your life, invest in other areas, honor the memory of a loved one, or support a charitable cause, selling your coin collection could be the right choice for you. So why not take a closer look at your collection and see if it’s time to sell? You might be surprised at how much value you have just sitting in your collection.

Selling your gold or other precious metals can be a daunting task. With so many buyers out there, it can be challenging to know who to trust. That’s why it’s important to do your research and read reviews to find a reputable buyer. In this article, we will discuss how to pick a gold buyer based on reviews.

Step 1: Research online

The first step in finding a reputable gold buyer is to research online. A simple Google search will provide you with a list of buyers in your area. Visit their website and read through their reviews. Look for buyers with a high rating and positive feedback from previous customers. Pay attention to any comments or reviews that mention specific issues or concerns, such as payment or customer service.

Step 2: Check out third-party review sites

In addition to checking out the buyer’s website, it’s essential to look at third-party review sites. These sites provide a more objective view of the buyer’s reputation. Yelp, Trustpilot, and the Better Business Bureau are all excellent review sites to check. Look for buyers with a high rating and positive feedback. Also, pay attention to how the buyer responds to negative reviews. Do they address the concerns and offer a resolution?

Step 3: Ask for references

Another way to find a reputable gold buyer is to ask for references. A trustworthy buyer should be willing to provide you with references from previous customers. Contact the references and ask about their experience with the buyer. Did they receive fair pricing for their gold, and was the process straightforward?

Step 4: Ask questions

When you’ve narrowed down your list of potential buyers, it’s time to ask questions. Contact the buyer and ask about their process, pricing, and any fees associated with the sale. A trustworthy buyer should be transparent about their process and fees. If they’re hesitant to answer your questions or seem evasive, it may be a red flag.

In conclusion, selling your gold to a reputable buyer is essential to ensure you receive fair pricing and have a positive experience. To pick a gold buyer based on reviews, research online, check out third-party review sites, ask for references, check their accreditation, and ask questions. By following these steps, you can find a trustworthy gold buyer and sell your gold with confidence.

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Google Reviews

Yelp Reviews

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Changing Weakness to Strength!
Trust worthy, honest, and nice people to work with. I sold some PMs and received a fair and market-based price for them. I would recommend and do business with them again. Five stars.

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B. Sherman
After reading some reviews I decided this place was the place to go sell my old coins and some jewelry. The staff was very friendly and the money I got for things I was amazed! I highly recommend Oakton coins and collectibles!

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erin w.
I was in here a few days ago to look for some coins for my dad. It’s his birthday in a few weeks and he is a collector. …More

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Erwin B.
After having dealt with a variety of Coin and Collectible Dealers over the years, I was skeptical about Oakton Coins and Collectibles. My experience there was excellent. Everything was upfront and was explained as we went through the …

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Ilya K.
I stopped in to inquire what my options were for investing in gold and the best products for it. The clerk was beyond helpful and spent close to 40 minutes explaining all of the various products and weights available and the best options …

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Ryan M.
I brought in some old jewelry that was just laying around gathering dust and was given a price that was more than fair. I went to one other pawn shop to see what they would offer and it was well below what Oakton offered me. Will be doing more business with them in the future!

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Claudia L.
I had some gold and old coins I needed to sell, and after reading reviews and doing some research, I decided to check this place out.
The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable, they made me a great offer for.

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Elizabeth A.
Great place to get rid of your old outdated gold jewelry. Not only did they have one of the best prices but they are really knowledgeable and really know their stuff. Great place to go!

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much.
Didn’t like what the other places were offering me and heard from someone that guy there knows more about gold Brought in some old jewelry to make some quick money and he gave me almost 3x what others where asking!!!

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B. Thomas
I drove from the south suburbs to skokie. I found Oakton off of yelp and read all the reviews and decided to stop by. I thought I’d give it a try since i really needed some cash. I was greeted by josos and showed him the gold coins that…

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Dimas D
This coin shop is outstanding. They took the time to explain all of the different options with the coins and bullion. The customer service is fantastic. These people are a pleasure to do business with. I never felt any pressure to buy anything. They are extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. Thanks

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Garrison P.
If you need to sell gold in Chicago this is the best place to go! They helped me get rid of some old and outdated jewelry that I had been carrying around for too long!! It was nice to feel like I was getting some of my money back even after all of this time. I got a check but I think they pay in cash too. Nice little coin shop.

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A. Zamudio
This is place is great, the only place I’ll  trust going with my coins in Chicago. My grandma has been coming here for years and they are always friendly to her and me. It’s in a fine Chicagoland neighborhood but they have to let you in by unlocking the door with a buzzer – it makes you feel safer.

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B. Allen
These folks are pros and will give you the best price for your old jewelry. Even the ‘We Buy Gold’ storefronts sell to them. I had a very challenging gold and silver jewelry inheritance and the guys at Oakton Coins really put the time and More….

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B. Cason
I had a gold pocket watch, which was over 50 years old, and I really wanted to check its value / sell it, Oakton Coins took the time to research the watch & we ended up negotiating a fair price. I am very satisfied how the deal went. Much friendlier than that place in Morton Grove.

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l. tran
I have sold gold and silver to them 2 times. They are very respectful, honest and more than fair. I have referred co-workers to Oakton Coins & Collectibles. Recently I went with one co-worker during our lunch break and they gave her an extra $20 to pay for our lunch as a thank you for my referral!

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E. Martyn
Their prices are reasonable. They were real professional in helping appraise my uncle’s estate. I thank them for all their help. Think its a good place to sell coins.

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K.Hegwood
Here my experience : Their prices are reasonable. They were real professional in helping appraise my uncle’s estate. I thank them for all their help. Think its a good place to sell coins.

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A. Shah
Can always count on a fun experience. Extremely knowledgable staff. Authentic items 100% of the time. Would highly recommend. A hidden gem

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G. Vasels
Believe the reviews! I went here to get rid of some gold jewelry I didn’t wear anymore and came back with more than I expected. Dealt with Joses. He is knowledgeable, professional, and very easy to talk to. I highly recommend them!

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E. Martinez
I found my moms jewelry box filled with mostly gold jewelry from 20 years ago. I had not use for it, so I decided to sell it. After doing some online research, I ended up at Oakton Coins. They were so helpful and friendly and I walked out of there with more than $500 cash in the end. I would definitely recommend them.

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Jon M.
Excellent experience! I recently inherited a large gold rope chain from my grandfather. Despite being a nice piece of jewelry, it was something that I know I would never wear. So with his blessing, he told me to sell it and get something …

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Z. Tarno.
This gold buyer is the most honest person I met in Skokie. I was there to meet family when we decided to sell my gold so I can buy a property but after some search all I could found was lairs who claim to be best gold buyers in chicago but …

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Z. Seym.
They would be my fist and only choice when dealing in coins or precious metals in the Skokie area

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M. Pusk.
These guys are some of the most knowledgeable gold and silver dealers I’ve met. They understand the market and are very fair. These guys stand out compared to some of the other guys and stores.

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Thom Ty
I took some old pocketwatches to Oakton Coins. Joses examined them and one turned out to be an expensive Railroad Pocketwatch. I decided to sell the other watches but not this one. Joses was very gracious about it. He told me that watch was …

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Scott P.
Great website!

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Thee B.
Great Place! Good Customer Service.

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George m.
Most amazing guy…

Yelp Reviews

Emmanuel F.
Chicago, IL

I brought in some gold and some coins, they presented me with an offer that was much higher than two other gold buyers in Evanston and Chicago…. the owner was honest and knowledgeable about what he was purchasing and I was completely satisfied.

I recommend Oakton Coins & Collectible over anyone else in Chicago 100%.

Someday I am going to bring my diamonds in for a appraisal value. I know ill get an honest answer.

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Rebecca G.
Chicago, IL

Joses was so easy to work with! I didn’t know what to expect before I went in, but both were so nice and easy to do business with. I would definitely come back here again! I highly recommend them.

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Capone23
Chicago, IL

I don’t usually visit these places but I found an old gold coin my grandfather left me and I thought it was worth less and I was uneducated in this field and business I went to various ones and even got low balled on most of them this place gave me the best amount I could get for the coin even more then I eBay could of got me thanks made the drive from Chicago worth it 5 stars ! The workers are really knowledgeable thanks.

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Erin W.
Chicago, IL

I was in Skokie visiting a friend the other day and we were out and about doing some shopping. Happen to walk by this store and wanted to go in because my dad is a coin collector and I wanted to see if I could find him a cool birthday gift.

I was greeted immediately, which was nice. It seems a lot of times small stores don’t even want to acknowledge a potential customer has walked into their business. But not here! I was asked if I was looking for anything specific or if I was just browsing. So I told them I wanted to take a look at their coins.

They had a really nice selection of coins, but also estate jewelry,paper money (domestic and foreign). I loved their selection of product … there is something for everyone in all different price ranges.

I completely forgot the name of the person who helped me but he was very nice, and very knowledgeable about what they had for sale.

This store also buys jewelry, coins, gold & silver, antiques, etc.

I’m glad we found this store. My dad is going to be so happy with his gift! (I got him a couple one ounce silver American eagle coins).

Overall I enjoyed my visit to this store. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, but not overbearing. They have a nice selection of product. The store itself was clean and inviting. I would definitely recommend that you go at least to browse, as there are some interesting pieces to look at, and purchase!

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Selwyn P.
Northbrook, IL

I went to this story after going to many different stores. I previously had discovered some gold coins that my grandparents had left behind. I didn’t know what kind of coins they were or where I could even go to check it out. I called many stores around the area and they kept telling me that they wouldn’t be able to give me an estimate like that. They told me that many times there could be a fee or I got low ball offers. When I went to Oakton Coins and Collectibles, I felt a different vibe because of the atmosphere that was created. I was helped by the staff right away. The staff was able to explain what gold coin it was. They were able to give me an honest answer about the real worth of it. I know they could have easily lied to me in order to make money, but they gave me a fair price. I was also interested by the vast amount of knowledge that the staff had on the coin. I know many times people just care about the money but they were able to give me a whole back story about the coin. I will definitely stop by the store again to see what other interesting items they may have.

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Scott S.
Hoffman Estates, IL

I am not one to write reviews, but I feel compelled to write this one.

Super friendy staff, very helpful and professional!!
they sell a great selection of jewelry and coins with the best prices!
I have been to a few different stores in Chicago, I brought in jewelry to be appraised & he was very efficient & I was happy with the information he gave me. Explained everything very well was genuine and honest..

Just a great and wonderful place to do business, I highly recommend!!!!

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Bj I.
Steger, IL

I drove from the south suburbs to skokie. I found Oakton off of yelp and read all the reviews and decided to stop by. I thought I’d give it a try since i really needed some cash. I was greeted by josos and showed him the gold coins that i had. I wasn’t certain as to what they were worth but I feel like I was given wayyyyyy more than what i was asking for. I highly recommend stopping by if you need cash and have gold or silver to sell. The drive was well worth it. Thanks again Joses!

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Rogelio C.
Chicago, IL

are you looking to buy/sell your Gold & or Gold coins in the Chicago area?? stop looking….this is DEFINITELY the place! come on in & talk to Joses, great honest guy. He will definitely give you the absolute best price around, guaranteed. Im a very happy customer & you will be also.
5+ stars….

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Lisa D.
Chicago, IL

Well, this is the place to go with all of those treasures (?) you find in your parents basement. Coins, stamps, jewelry, you name it. Jim gave me a quick once-over appraisal of a crazy coin collection. He gave sound advice on whether my collection had any potential as an investment and warned me about mold and mildew.
Parking in back. A good place to pick up a cool gift. Groomsmen gifts?

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Weston M.
Ukrainian Village,

I was actually here a couple weeks ago but just got around to writing a review. Very clean store with delightful staff who aren’t overbearing and gave me a great price on some old gold I hadn’t worn in awhile. Terrific place to buy and sell jewelry and gold. I’ll be going back for sure! Thanks guys!

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Dominik R.
Streamwood, IL

The employees here at Oakton Coins go way above the rest. I was treated so much different here than other coin places. I had no idea what the value was on some of my coins, and they pulled up comparable coins and provided a fair asking value of my coins. I would do business with them anytime.

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Amanda G.
Avondale, Chicago, IL

Great place to come if you are looking to sell gold or coins. The staff was very helpful and friendly as soon as I walked in. I’ll definitely recommend my friends to come here!

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Marcie K.
Agoura Hills, CA

My folks died and left us with a lot of coins to be appraised (silver dollars, coins in original rolls, collector sets, foreign coins, etc…). I was happy to have found Oakton Coins & Collectibles. They were friendly, fast, and efficient at sorting through what I brought in to them. With no appointment required, they quickly went to work separating those coins with more than face value from those I would later take myself to the bank as cash. They seemed knowledgeable and fair, offering to buy what had value at the end of their sorting. I have already suggested a friend visit their shop. I was highly satisfied with my experience.

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Ashley S.
Hoffman Estates, IL

We went to Oakton coins and collectibles on the recommendation of friends. I was a little skeptical at first because of a bad review I read on here but soon as I walked in, that feeling disappeared.. I was greated and treated like family, it was refreshing, but I couldn’t be more impressed by Joses specifically. My husband’s aunt recently passed away and we inherited coins we had no use for… we are so beyond thrilled. There was no pressure, he gave us a very fair price on our coins, Joses was incredibly helpful. I wouldn’t go anywhere else. You can sell your gold and coins here if your debating between this store and another choose Oakton coins and collectibles… You won’t be disappointed with their staff!!!

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Ryan M.
Brooklyn, NY

I brought in some old jewelry that was just laying around gathering dust and was given a price that was more than fair. I went to one other pawn shop to see what they would offer and it was well below what Oakton offered me. Will be doing more business with them in the future!

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Mayra S.
Chicago, IL

Oakton coins and collectibles is your go to place to sell gold. Way better offers than other places I’ve been to in Chicago. Friendly staff. They buy and sell a variety of items. Will definitely go back in the near future

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Jalissa S.
Chicago, IL

I noticed the other review regarding poor customer service, and I will have to disagree. From my experience, Joses seemed very friendly! This is where you wanna come to handle your buying/selling needs for any of that pretty coinage you have. Have some old coins that your grandparents gave you and you don’t know what to do with? Take it here. Found a collection at an estate sale and wanna know how much it’s worth? Take it here. They’ll take care of you.

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Andrew W.
Chicago, IL

I had two old gold watches from my grandfather that didn’t even run anymore. I put together a small list of pawn shops/watch stores/cash for gold places in the area and spent a couple days looking for the best offer. All places I went to were were shady and pretty trashy. When I walked into Oakton Coins I was greeted by both store owners and got an offer significantly better than any other place I went to. A family friend who sells watches told me I would not get more than $300 for them but Oakton Coins offered me $450. On top of that I asked if I could work out a deal where I took less in cash and got more in store credit (they have some cool old American coins which I wanted to get to top off my coin collection). I walked out with $250 in cash and about $300 in coins.
Overall great experience and I would definitely tell you not waste your time going to the other sleazy pawn shops in the area if you are looking to sell or buy something.

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Aly F.
Chicago, IL

After searching yelp for the best place to sell some old gold I’ve been keeping, I finally came across this GEM! This was the 2nd place I visited and am I glad I did. Staff was super friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. Didn’t try to lowball me. Will definitely visit again!

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Oscar Meerim M.
Chicago, IL

Very satisfied! Got a good deal on my gold jewelry. If you are looking for place to sell your gold or silver in Chicago, you should definitely go there! Highly recommended!

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Cat C.
Chicago, IL

This is wonderful place to sell gold or coins in the Chicago area. I love going here! The people are friendly and very helpful. I would definitely use their services again. Keep up the great work!

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Hector T.
Chicago, IL

Came here to sell some old gold i had. Visited other places before here and they offered me to low, here i sold it for a good price and people where friendly and polite . higly recommend this place for people that have gold lying around .

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Isaiah D.
Burbank, IL

I stopped in today after doing my homework on a lot of places and I have to say I was very impressed. J & J were both very friendly and polite, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the offer they gave me for my old jewelry. The place is clean and secure, something that definitely sold me from the minute I walked in. I look forward to working with these guys in the future!

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Tiffany N.
Des Plaines, IL

I researched a few different places to bring some old jewelry to sell and I’m glad I found this place! The gentleman gave us a very fair price and was very polite. Very quick process. All around a great experience.

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Julia B.
Chicago, IL

I came into this business a few days ago with a bunch of items that I expected to get offered almost nothing for. Joe and Jim, knowing that I knew absolutely nothing about jewelry or any collectible items whatsoever were two of the most honest and pleasant people I’ve ever met. I will never go to another coin and collectible shop again. I have been ripped off numerous times and they are more than fair. I referred many of my friends and family members who are looking to sell their items. They were all just as impressed. Support their business. You will not be let down!

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Terri Q.
Litchfield Park, AZ

This place is the best!! I did quite a bit of research before ending up at Oakton Coin & Collectibles, and am so glad I did. Joses and Jim are absolutely wonderful to work with. They are courteous, professional and knowledgeable. I highly recommend Oakton Coin & Collectibles! You will not be disappointed!

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K. L.
Chicago, IL

Jim is THE nicest person you could do business with as far as collectibles, coins, etc. He makes the whole process so extremely easy, pleasant, and he’s impeccably honest. It does not get any better – I have been here a couple times now and it’s just been a great experience.

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Stephen J.
Chicago, IL

With the recent passing of my mother, I needed help liquidating a coin collection I had inherited. JIm & Joses invested a tremendous amount of time sorting through and giving me a valuation for the coins. The process was more emotional than I anticipated. Jim & Joses were helpful and patient during the entire process. I was very satisfied with the final results. Their professionalism made the process much easier. Thank you.

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Lars B.
Skokie, IL

Got my coins appraised here and really enjoyed taking to the owner of this shop. I would definitely recommend going to visit this little coin store.

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JK B.
Evanston, IL

I came here with my 3rd grader and his friend when school was canceled due to cold. They’re both interested in coins, so we thought it would be fun – and it was! They don’t just have coins, but other collectibles too. The owner and his colleague were both very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. I would definitely recommend checking it out!

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Piotr S.
Chicago, IL

I was glad to find a coin shop in skokie. Joses took good care of me. Will do business again.

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Sarah C.
Chicago, IL

A+ Customer Service! The owner is super friendly & knowledgeable and really cares about his customers. He was a great help to me and gave me a great prize for my gold and I would highly recommend this shop to anyone!

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Magdalena P.
Chicago, IL

I highly recommend this business! Clean & comfortable environment, helpful & friendly staff, fair prices. The process was handled quickly and I won’t ever sell my gold or silver to anywhere but here! Coming back soon!!

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Timothy R.
Chicago, IL

I buy gold coins from all the Chicago coin shops. Always with cash, because thats how I do it. At first this seemed like a good place to buy gold… but then they said that they would have to do some sort of irs or government paperwork if I bought $10,000 cash; no thank you Ill take my business elsewhere.

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Tom B.
Chicago, IL

Great selection of coin collecting supplies, easy in and out parking.

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Maggie L.
Chicago, IL

The best customer service in top of a great rate for my gold. Definitely will recommend after checking other stores and their market price…$$$ highly recommend surely coming back soon!!!

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Paul L.
Sandpoint, ID

I’m very glad I went there, very fair.

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Tori P.
Chicago, IL

These guys are great! A family tragedy has left me with the task of dividing up portions of the estate, on top of it, dividing up a coin collection left me unsure where to start. Jim and Joe have been amazing. They go through and make their assessment and then took the time to explain to me how they came up with their figures. Jim gave me advice and was willing to explain how he came up with his numbers and which portions would be easier for me to just divide up evenly. They are knowledgeable and patient and didn’t make me feel pressured to sell immediately. They gave me the option and were nice about it!!
I have also brought in a few pieces of jewelry and they were just as accommodating when evaluating that. I will absolutely be going back there and I highly recommend this shop for any coin, jewelry or collectable needs.

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Adil R.
Skokie, IL

this place gave me higher than anyone in the area appraised my old coin collection, jeff was an absolute pleasure to work with and was very knowledgeable!, i will definitely be back!

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Rickeal N.
Chicago, IL

After Looking Around for a Coin Place to sell my collection i saw and heard so many good things about Oakton Coins & Collectibles and go talk to Joses he was a great help and definitely knows his coins.i have recommend this place to friends and family I would definitely come back here again! I highly recommend them

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Claudia L.
Chicago, IL

I had some gold and old coins I needed to sell, and after reading reviews and doing some research, I decided to check this place out.
The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable, they made me a great offer for my stuff.
I am definitely coming back here!

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David L.
Chicago, IL

My mom and I shopped her jewelry around to three places before selling, the last stop was Oakton Coins. Wish it was the first stop, in retrospect. They tested the gold in front of us, (it’s a interesting process). Payment was in cash and a good 20% higher than the others.

Tip: Stay away from of that “jewelry shop” in Evanston that takes your jewelry in the back room; shady.

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Dusty W.
Chicago, IL

I LOVE OAKTON COINS!! I inherited a “rare” and bulky coin collection from my late grandfather. I had no real idea what I was getting into or what I had. They were more than helpful and EXTREMELY knowledgable! They took the time to catalog and organize the whole thing (it was kind of a mess). I ended up keeping some of it and selling most of it. Now I have more space and money, THANK YOU!! Next time ill bring a bone for the cute dog 😉

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Ashley R.
Chicago, IL

I was doing a final clean out my elderly parents house and found a old toolbox in the back of a storage closet. To my surprise It was filled with silver coins, and some coin books and coin rolls. I really didn’t know what to do with the stuff, my mother must’ve collected the stuff back in the 60s.

After lugging this heavy box to Oakton coins. They helped me sort through everything, It took quite a while and counting it all was quite a chore. But it was worth it… It tallied up to close to $2000 dollars. The boys at Oakton Coins really helped me out, Ill be back. Thank you.

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Jenny W.
Chicago, IL

Well, I inherited some gold and silver coins and I realize there’s no use collecting them. I don’t see any sentimental value on them – only financial value. So I grabbed all the coins I received and decided to sell them.

I have never tried selling gold coins before but I have pawned jewelries before so basically, I know some bits and pieces on how the process would work.

To me, my visit here was not only an interesting experience but also a bountiful one. Joses had been a huge help. I was met with professional customer service but that was to be expected. What impressed me was his knowledge about coins. From him, I learned some interesting facts about my coins. I never have thought that some of my coins would have cultural significance – they are more than mere coins.

But that didn’t change my mind. I must sell my coins. What’s the use of a culturally significant gold coin when what I want is money? Fortunately, Joses, wasn’t so stingy. In fact, he gave me a great offer – I got several thousands and way more than what I have expected. I WAS RICH! It wouldn’t have happen without Joses.

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Kevin M.
Chicago, IL

This coin shop has been helping me slowly liquidate my fathers extensive coin collection. Just wanted to say thank you for your patience and knowledge with this situation. Its been difficult, your help is greatly appreciated.

Selling Jewelry? Learn how and where to sell a diamond or jewelry in Evanston or anywhere else.

If you have arrived at this page, presumably it is because you have a diamond or other pieces of jewelry that you want or need to sell. Whether you have jewelry or a diamond to sell, this page could prove to be an extremely valuable resource as you attempt to sell your particular jewelry items. So, take your time and read the entire page carefully. On average, we receive 13 to 19 visits, calls, or emails every single day from Evanston individuals just like you who have gold, platinum, diamonds, colored gemstones, watches, or some other type of jewelry they hope to sell. In response to those many queries and simply as a public service to anyone with jewelry they want or need to sell, we have created this page. If, after reading the page you still have questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email us with your question or questions. 

We understand that you may have pieces from a previous engagement or marriage that you no longer want. We also understand that these are challenging economic times and that you may not really want to sell your jewelry. So, while we don’t make a penny from the time we spend answering questions or coaching you on how to sell a diamond, watch, or other jewelry, we gain great satisfaction from simply trying to help anyone who contacts us, regardless of their reason for selling. Your jeweler should try to help, not just when you are buying, but also when you want or need to sell. We hope the information you find on this page will be helpful.

Learn how to sell gold, platinum, diamonds, watches, or any other jewelry Item. Your lesson begins here.

If you are among those with jewelry to sell, you need to know certain things before you attempt to sell in order to receive the most for that jewelry. On this page, you will learn the brutal truths related to selling jewelry. You may have already discovered that it is far easier to buy jewelry than to sell it for a fair price. In any case, you will now learn how to sell your jewelry items in a way that will make it possible for you to receive the most money for those jewelry items.

Surprisingly, attempting to sell your diamond or jewelry to a jeweler/dealer is not the best alternative available to you.  Jewelers/dealers may be very accommodating, even aggressive, when you want to buy a piece of jewelry, but they may show little or no interest when you have something to sell. Even the jeweler where you purchased the item is likely to respond with, “I’m sorry, but we don’t buy jewelry.” Or, a jeweler may offer what seems to be an absurdly low price. Well, we’re here to help and offer suggestions for selling and receiving the most for any jewelry item.

Typically, a jeweler will offer prices that are among the lowest you will be offered by anyone other than a pawnbroker. You may consider this unfair, think the jeweler is trying to cheat you in some way. However, the jeweler has a very good reason for the low price offer.

In nearly every case, a jeweler can make or buy a piece of jewelry exactly like or very similar to the one you are trying to sell. More importantly, the jeweler can make that item or buy it at a wholesale price. So why would a jeweler or any other business person offer more than the wholesale value for an item that they can make or buy at a wholesale price? As a basic business decision, if the jeweler can make or buy the piece at wholesale, they have no good reason to even offer you the wholesale price. Unfortunately, the price you paid for the item or the appraised value of the item means little to a jeweler. The piece is simply going to be evaluated based on what the item would cost at wholesale. Consequently, unless you are willing to accept something less than wholesale, it is unlikely that you will ever sell anything to a jeweler. For that reason, and even though we are jewelers, we suggest that you try other alternatives before offering your piece to a jeweler/dealer around Evanston.

“Fine.So what do I do with my jewelry in Evanston?” you might be asking. Well, you do the following:

First, gather any paperwork such as receipts, appraisals, or certificates you may have related to the items you want to sell. If you don’t have any paperwork, have your item(s) appraised. Anyone considering your jewelry, other than a jeweler, will want some proof that it’s worth what you’re asking. When having an appraisal done, you should make sure that it is a realistic “fair market value,” not an inflated value. An overvalued appraisal is of no use to you or the person considering your jewelry. You will have no idea of the real value of your item, and if they show it to an experienced jeweler, the people considering the piece may think you are trying to mislead them. That alone could cost you the sale.

With solid fair market value documentation in hand, the following are your selling alternatives, best to worst:

Private Sale – Selling Your Jewelry on Your Own

CRITICAL NOTE: When pursuing the next three alternatives, make sure that you never list or provide your personal address to anyone who does not already have that information and certainly not to strangers, no matter how warm and friendly they may seem. And if your prospective buyer requests the location of your jewelry, tell anyone who asks that you keep your jewelry at your bank or other secure location. You should never tell anyone that you keep where you live. Obviously, this is for security reasons.  

Next, if someone expresses interest in your item(s), arrange to show your item(s) at a bank or other public place. One of the most secure places to consider meeting a potential buyer is at a local police station. The location is public, and the officers won’t mind. If your potential buyers object to meeting at a police station, you probably don’t want to meet with them at all. After all, the police station provides security for both parties. With the following selling alternatives, you will be responsible for ensuring your personal safety and the security of anything you are attempting to sell. Your safety and security should always be your primary concerns.

We did not provide the guidance above to frighten you, but simply to ensure that you consider security issues that may be involved in your particular selling situation. We live with security issues every day around Evanston.

1) One of the most common questions we receive is, “How should I price my item?” Well, the answer is that if you really want to sell your jewelry, you should begin by offering it at 25% to 30% off of the fair market value. One of the primary reasons anyone considers used, pre-owned, estate, or consignment jewelry is because they expect “a deal” on the item(s). Regardless of condition, unless your item is a collector’s piece or is a truly unique item that can’t easily be reproduced, no one is likely to offer you anything approaching fair market value. Why buy someone else’s item at full price when you can go to a store and buy it brand new at the same price? You know the answer to that question.

2) Once priced, you should first offer your jewelry to relatives, friends and acquaintances, or business associates. Hopefully, these are individuals who know and trust you. You are likely to receive the most money for your items using this selling method. For that reason, this will very likely be the best of your alternatives, so try this one first.

3) Run an advertisement in your local newspaper. They may also have an online presence, which could give your item double exposure. Start your ad with the words “must sell.” People who haunt the newspaper or online sites looking for jewelry items like to think they have you over a barrel. End your ad with the letters “obo,” which means “or best offer.” This simply indicates to potential buyers that you are willing to “deal.” Since there is no go-between involved here either, this is very likely your second best alternative.

Unfortunately, while attempting this and the following alternative, you should expect to be contacted by thieves trying to steal the things you are trying to sell. If you expect this, you won’t be surprised and will be prepared to respond appropriately. One of the most common current scams is for someone posing as a potential buyer to ask that you establish a PayPal Account for your protection and for theirs. This is, by the way, normally a good option. Unfortunately, if a thief is involved, sometime after you tell your “buyer” that you have established an account, you will receive a very official-appearing email that you are to believe is from PayPal. This email will tell you that payment funds for the item you are selling have been deposited to your account and you should now ship the item. Again, if a thief is involved, nothing has been deposited to your account. So, you should always call PayPal to personally verify deposits to your account prior to shipping anything. Sadly, thieves who steal by fraud are often extremely practiced and very good at what they do. For this reason, we suggest “in person” cash payments as your primary choice for method of payment.

4) List your item or items on the internet, eBay, or Craig’s List. We suggest CraigsList over eBay simply because Craig’s List is market specific, and you can actually meet the individual considering your item(s). Take a digital picture of your jewelry piece to include with the description. Pictures help sell jewelry items. As noted above, with Internet alternatives, you must be alert to fraud. Make sure your money is in the bank prior to shipping. And you should know that those who shop on the Internet expect a “deal.”  So if your item isn’t marked well below the “value” you list, don’t expect very many, if any, bids. This is the worst of the “private sale” alternatives.

Note:  Many people are now selling jewelry on Facebook. There are “secret” or “private groups” where you can post items to sell. Some people consider this alternative to be somewhat safer than Craig’s List; however, it is not without its pitfalls. So there are times when the seller must beware.

Remember that with the above selling alternatives, there are no go-betweens; so you aren’t paying anything to a third party. Your only costs will be those for ads or placement fees.

Finally, when using any of the above methods, do not be concerned about offending anyone in order to ensure your personal safety or the security of your jewelry items. Honest individuals will understand. It is the dishonest individuals who will attempt to “sweet talk” you or intimidate you into making a mistake.

Consignment Sale – Selling it through a Trusted or Reputable Second Party

5) Place your jewelry on consignment with a reputable jeweler.  Consignment will typically result in anything from a 70/30 split to a 50/50 split when the item sells. We offer a 70/30 split, with you receiving 70% of sale proceeds. With this alternative, the jeweler should take care of everything. And a jeweler has access to other jewelry dealers/brokers, diamond and gemstone suppliers, and his own jewelry clients, so his resources could be vast. Also, a jeweler is able to accept credit card sales. Many people prefer this method simply because they don’t have to worry about security or deal with potential buyers. With this alternative, many individuals feel that the fee is well worth the resources and security a reputable jeweler brings to the effort. However, this is for you to evaluate and decide.

Note: We only consider major items for our consignment program.  You should send us a picture and description of your item(s) before visiting so that you don’t waste a trip. If we believe we may be able to sell your piece, we will schedule an appointment for you to visit. Again, please call prior to visiting.

6) With major pieces of jewelry (items valued at $25,000–$100,000.00 or more), you might consider placing your jewelry for sale with a reputable auction house. There may be a local auction house in your area; however, Christie’s and Sotheby’s are two of the most recognized names in the international auction industry. With this alternative, you will pay percentages and/or fees. The major problem with a sale at auction is that you can never be sure how much your item will bring. However, you can set sale price limits.

Cash Sale/Quick Sale

7) Offer your jewelry to a reputable jeweler for purchase. But, as noted above, don’t expect anything near retail value for your item. In fact, any offer from a jeweler/dealer is very likely going to be significantly below wholesale for the reasons noted above. As with any other item, if you need to make a quick sale, you are not going to receive as much with this alternative. However, if you are dealing with a reputable jeweler and your price is reasonable, you can be paid on the spot with cash or check.

8) Offer your jewelry to a reputable “estate jewelry buyer.”With this option, don’t expect much more than 20 to 35 cents on the dollar. One of the only good things about this alternative is that these estate buyers often pay in cash. This alternative is one of the worst.

9) The absolute worst place to sell jewelry is to a pawnbroker, where you’ll be lucky to be offered 10 cents on the dollar. Don’t be surprised if you are only offered “scrap” value. This alternative should only be considered as an act of desperation.

Summary: You are likely to receive the most money for any jewelry item you have to sell by: 1) selling it on your own to another individual, or 2) leaving it on consignment with a reputable jeweler.

We wish you success with your jewelry sale and hope this page has been interesting, informative, and helpful. The information offered above is based on our more than 50 years of experience in the jewelry buying and selling industry. During that time, we have been called upon to evaluate and sell some very expensive pieces for individuals seeking assistance selling a wide variety of jewelry items.  

All of our Jewelry buying services are warm and personal, and as stated on our opening page, we hope to earn the confidence and trust necessary to become your personal jewelry buyer. Again, if you have any questions about selling your jewelry, please don’t hesitate to call Oakton Coins & Collectibles in Evanston / Skokie.

30 collectibles that are now worthless

COLLECT CALL…..
Many of us hold onto things for years, sometimes decades, believing our “treasures” — well-considered purchases made for investment, collections methodically assembled, or even family heirlooms — will yield big rewards. Some take pride of place on the mantel; others are stored away in boxes that crowd the basement or languish in the attic. Unfortunately, though, the goods we were sure would appreciate in value often turn out to be worth nothing, or at least not much more than we paid for them.

VINYL RECORDS
A $35,000 copy of “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” or the Beatles’ “White Album”? Some records may be worth something, but even with vinyl having a renaissance, no long-neglected albums from junior high are likely to finance the next generation’s college tuition. Most newbies are simply buying re-issues and contemporary releases, and veteran collectors want pristine original pressings. The most valuable albums are rare and ideally kept in climate-controlled, dust-free storage. Otherwise, expect pennies on the dollar.

STAMPS
Stamps, like so many other collectibles, are filled with variables. Condition plays a big part in determining value, as do age and rarity. The casual collector who simply saves what looks pretty or interesting, ripping off the corner of an envelope to save that delicate flower, historical figure, or stellar landscape, will wind up with boxes worth very little. The same goes for stamp albums for children or beginners that are sparsely filled — and any U.S. postal stamps from the past 70 years, which is what most people have.

WHEAT PENNIES
Every so often, news of a rare coin, perhaps a recently discovered misstep by the U.S. Mint, gets people emptying their pockets in search of a jackpot find — and good luck with that. More common is the collecting of wheat pennies (also known as wheatbacks or wheat cents), based on hearing that they’re worth more than their face value. That just means they’re worth more than a cent — from 3 to 4 cents to a few dollars at the most — so it would take a lot to make the seller rich.

BEANIE BABIES
Remember the mania for Beanie Babies in the 1990s? Introduced by Ty in 1993, the plush toys — nine in the original collection — were suddenly must-haves. If they weren’t played with and had their paper tags still attached, some could indeed command tidy sums. But last year on eBay, a collection of 2001 Happy Birthday Bears — the complete set of 12 — was seeking a starting bid of just $15 … with no takers. The website Ty Collector laments, “The buying frenzy decreased significantly after 1998 when Ty produced so many Beanie Babies for the worldwide market that retailers had difficulty selling them all.”

HAPPY MEAL TOYS
McDonald’s has been selling Happy Meals since the late 1970s, and many of the tiny toys included with the food have indeed become collectibles worth several hundred dollars for a complete set. But most people probably haven’t collected all 101 of those “101 Dalmatians.” And like many other youth collectibles, Happy Meal toys are worth big bucks only in mint condition with their original packaging — which includes the Happy Meal box. Alas, these giveaways are most often ripped open and played with moments after purchase.

‘BROWN FURNITURE’
“Brown furniture” is a catchall term in the antiques trade for sturdy, dark-wood warhorses such as cabinets and sideboards, dining tables, and bedroom sets. Museum-quality work by noted crafters and designers of historic importance commands the prices one might hope, but everyday home furnishings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have taken a hit on aesthetic and monetary fronts. Today art deco and midcentury modern pieces are in demand. A walk through many an antique or consignment shop will find the old brown pieces relegated to the back or basement, with price tags to match.

COMIC BOOKS
Unless you’ve dug into a stash of comics and uncovered ultra-rare issues from the earliest days of Superman, Batman, or the classic Marvel heroes, you’re likely holding onto a pile of childhood memories, and nothing more. As baby boomers age, they are paring down and trying to cash in, and the market for comics is glutted. Condition, as with so many collectibles, is key too. A random check of price guides and online marketplaces might prove eye-opening, to say the least.

COSTUME JEWELRY
The costume jewelry market is driven by trends and pop culture. One season, long necklaces for layering are in; next it’s disco-era chokers. Some collectors bypass anything that isn’t signed (designers stamp their name or logo on the reverse), so iconic pieces from noted designers and manufacturers (vintage Miriam Haskell, Kenneth Jay Lane, Weiss, Eisenberg, and others) command top dollar. But by nature, the bulk of costume jewelry is mass-produced, designed to bring a bit of glamour within the reach of everyone. That means there’s an overabundance of pieces that, while pretty and intricate, fill the $5 or $10 tables at flea markets. And here, again, condition plays a part. It’s hard to unload pieces with missing rhinestones or faulty clasps.

MODEL TRAIN SETS
That old model train may not have seen the underside of a Christmas tree in years, but it was made by Lionel, which has been producing model trains for more than a century, so it’s tempting to think it’s valuable. “Many of the trains made in the early years right up through the present have kept their value, and some are highly valued by collectors,” the Lionel Collectors Club of America says. But also: “More common ones, while worthy of running, may not have a high collector value.” As usual, condition, rarity, and an original box are key. If the train is in beaten-up boxes jammed with twisted wires, bent tracks, and a bit of rust, forget it.

SERVING PLATTERS
That china serving platter given at your grandparents’ wedding and used by generations has finally been passed down to you. It was never nicked or chipped — a miracle — and it has to be worth something. But with so many reproductions or revivals of vintage patterns, it can be difficult for an amateur to authenticate a piece and accurately gauge collectible-quality condition and rarity. If the platter is pristine, and from a noted line such as Royal Albert Old Country Roses, you may be in luck. More often, though, passed-down pieces are valuable only for their family history.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Some parents will pay anything to share a favorite childhood book with their own children. There are also collectors who collect books for their covers, or to frame pages for decorative purposes. Last year, two first-edition copies of the Dr. Seuss classic “Green Eggs and Ham” from 1960 were selling for $4,750 and $3,500 on Biblio.com — but those featured quite specific qualities that most likely matter to just the rarest collectors. After all, the charm of most children’s books is they’ve been loved: They often carry children’s names (printed perhaps for the first time by them), bent pages, random crayon marks, or even little stains — and those are not exactly selling points, especially when so many classics get frequent printings.

PRECIOUS MOMENTS’ BRIDE & GROOM SETS
Precious Moments bride-and-groom sets made good wedding gifts or keepsake cake toppers, going on to take pride of place in the new couple’s first home. A recent scroll through eBay found many have provoked nostalgia, but not envy, as, for example, 1979’s “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” — billed as “rare!” — was listed at just $8.50

NORMAN ROCKWELL COLLECTOR PLATES
Many people focus on themes or manufacturers when collecting commemorative plates from the ubiquitous American artist Norman Rockwell. But owners should have thought twice before coddling these items, as an array of original retired/mint condition plates complete with box, Styrofoam and certificates of authenticity sell for less than $50 on Rockwellplates.com.

CABBAGE PATCH KIDS
Remember when parents would literally rip Cabbage Patch Kids from each other’s hands in stores? When the soft-sculpture dolls went national in the early ’80s, people couldn’t “adopt” enough of these for around $30. As with many youth-oriented collectibles, condition is everything, so unless your “kid” hasn’t been out of its box, expect to perhaps break even.

VINTAGE COLLEGE PENNANTS
Rah, rah … rah? Those felt pennants hung by generations of students carry plenty of tradition — but their value is, again, subjective. While alumni might feel they’ve held onto gold, they likely won’t be able to pay off that college loan. An undated Boston College pennant “complete with tack hole” can go for only $15 on eBay.

HUMMEL FIGURINES
Hummel figurines were based on the drawings of a nun with the surname Hummel — a fact that may be worth more than any of the zillions of collectibles her work sparked. The Hummel figurines from the Goebel company, first made in the 1930s, have graced many a mantel. But their charm has fallen largely out of favor. Many of the most ardent collectors have died, and this month, the classic “Village Boy” holding a basket was listed for $1 on eBay.

HOT WHEELS
Miniature die-cast cars from Mattel introduced in the late ’60s kept children excited for playtime for years, and collectors happy. Unfortunately, the sheer quantity of the models produced and the fact that most were played with roughly make for poor prices. There have been record sales, but more than a few 1960s models can be scored for a couple of bucks.

SELECT BARBIE DOLLS
There are always going to be Barbie dolls that command top dollar, because there are always going to be deep-pocketed collectors who will pay anything. But the Barbies most people own, especially those “previously loved,” won’t make anyone rich. Even a Donna Karan Bloomingdale’s Limited Edition doll could be had for $22 online this month.

AUTOGRAPHED SPORTS MEMORABILIA
This is a tricky category. There are some authenticated signatures that will trade for the price of a new car or house — but the prevalence of forgeries, mass-produced products, and the like mean there’s a greater chance that the jersey you bought at the local convention center isn’t worth much. If you witnessed the autograph, that’s another story, and lucky you.

COOKIE JARS
Andy Warhol was perhaps the world’s most famous cookie-jar collector, and his trove famously sold for around a quarter-million at Sotheby’s in the late 1980s. But for the general collector, these relics of the past — do today’s diet-conscious masses even eat cookies? — can be scored for a few bucks at the local flea market or well under $50 on eBay.

SOUVENIR BELLS
Everyone knew you collected them: porcelain or metal bells commemorating locations, destinations, and special events. They brought them back from Las Vegas and London for you, joining those you collected on your own travels or at special events, such as a town’s celebration of the Bicentennial. Today, you can travel the world through eBay, picking up bells from Mount Vernon ($4) to Hawaii ($6), Singapore ($5) or splurge on Liberace ($18) … not exactly world-class valuations.

SALT-AND-PEPPER SETS
So, bells weren’t your thing? Maybe people loved to bring you salt-and-pepper shakers. Today, most sell on eBay for well under $10 — not much more than the original prices. A recent lot featured cowboy hats, King Kong and the Empire State Building, pagodas, spice canisters, seagulls, horse heads, and quite a few more, all for $40. Those pairs crowding your shelves are destined to collect more dust.

VINTAGE PLAYBILLS
Broadway shows always seem like a luxury, especially with today’s ticket pricing, and vintage Playbills, especially from opening nights, might seem like theatrical gold. Unfortunately, prices have really dropped since the advent of the Internet, Broadway World readers say. A 1964 Playbill for “Funny Girl” featuring Barbra Streisand, once going for upward of $350, can now be had for around $10. There are exceptions, as always, but these collectibles may be best valued for the memories.

FARM TOOLS
A decorating craze for vintage farm tools had collectors buying items for their looks, often not even knowing the original use. But reproductions glutted the market, and today, with tastes often skewing toward the modern, tools from pitchforks to sheep shears, and sickles to pulleys, can easily be scored on for well under $50.

UNREMARKABLE VINTAGE CLOTHING
You’re cleaning out grandma’s closet and come across dozens of dresses. Unless they have designer labels, back-in-trend silhouettes, or standout details in pristine condition, you’re basically looking at a pile of old clothes. Vintage collectors are ruthless when it comes to provenance and condition, so know that before listing a 1950s prom dress for much more than $75, the going rate on eBay.

CARNIVAL CHALKWARE
Kitschy carnival souvenirs were the darlings of antique shops for ages — “chalkware” dogs and Kewpies of particular interest. But these easily dented and damaged onetime prizes are no longer held in such esteem. It’s a rare example that fetches more than $25.

THOMAS KINKADE COLLECTIBLES
When an artist dies, they say, their work’s value goes through the roof. Well, with Thomas Kinkade, the so-called “Painter of Light,” the sheer quantity of work has left some collectors chagrined. After his 2012 death, The Guardian reported that his work was featured in one of 20 U.S. homes, and now an Old World Santa ornament can be found for $3 online, and a framed “Spring Gate” painting for $15.

HESS TRUCKS
As with so many toys, kids loved — and played with — their annual Hess Truck gift, rarely leaving them untouched in the box. If you have the first one from 1964, when it sold for $1.39, and it’s in pristine condition, the Antiques Almanac says you may be sitting on nearly $2,500. A quick check on prices in mid-July, though, shows that since dozens of models, especially those from the 1970s, sell for well under $40. There are plenty of Hess collectors, but skyrocketing prices are not the norm.

LONGABERGER BASKETS
The classic handcrafted baskets by Longaberger — for years, a company based in a distinctive basket-shaped building in Ohio — typifies the collectibles market: They surged in value in the 1990s on the secondary market, but have been static since. With the company’s shutdown in May, who knows? Collector prices may soon surge.

 

 

The Maria Theresa Thaler (MTT) is a silver bullion coin that has maintained its role in world trade since its initial minting in 1741. It derives its name from Empress Maria Theresa, who reigned over Austria, Hungary, and Bohemia from 1740 to 1780 and is depicted on the coin.

Initially, in 1741, the coin adhered to the Reichsthaler standard, with 9 thalers equaling the Vienna mark, which represented roughly half a pound of fine silver. However, in 1750, the thaler was debased to 10 thalers per Vienna mark. The subsequent year saw the widespread adoption of this new standard across German-speaking regions when it was formally accepted during the Bavarian monetary convention. Due to the timing of this convention, some writers mistakenly claim that the Maria Theresa Thaler was first minted in 1751.

Since the passing of Maria Theresa in 1780, the coin has consistently carried the date 1780. On September 19, 1857, Emperor Francis Joseph of Austria declared the Maria Theresa thaler as an official trade coinage. However, just over a year later, on October 31, 1858, it ceased to function as legal tender in Austria.

The MTT was widely circulated in various parts of the world. It had a significant presence in the Arab world, particularly in Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Muscat and Oman. It also found usage in Africa, notably in Ethiopia, as well as in India. During World War II, when Indonesia was occupied by Japan, the MTT gained popularity over the currency issued by the occupying forces. In response, the American Office of Strategic Services produced counterfeit MTTs for use by resistance groups.

In German-speaking countries, a spelling reform was implemented in 1901, which altered the written form of “Thaler” to “Taler” (although the spelling of given names like “Theresia” remained unchanged). Consequently, 20th-century references to this coin in German and Austrian sources can be found under the term “Maria-Theresien-Taler.” The spelling in English-speaking countries remained unaffected. The Austrian Mint continues to produce the MTT, offering it in both proof and uncirculated conditions.

1780 Austria The Maria Theresa Thaler Coin * Restrike * 83% Silver 28.1 grams