Thursday, March 9, 2017

Coin Sources

Let's look at where coins can be had in volume.

Banks and Credit Unions

If you need some money, go to where they keep it...in the bank.  Some banks won't give you rolls unless you are a customer.  You'll be hard pressed to find one that will exchange your rolls for bills if you don't have an account.  Ideally, you pick up rolls at one bank, drop them off at another.  Use one bank for your personal checking account.  If you have the means, use another bank for a coin checking account.

Tipped Employees
Keep that waitress in mind. Tipped employees usually have BUCKETS of change. Sometimes they know enough to keep the interesting coins. This gives you a steady source of mixed coins without the hassle of a bank teller, and a potential source for wheats/indians//buffalos/silver. If they don't keep the interesting coins, they may pick them out for you if they think a tip is coming.


Family, Friends, Coworkers
Don't overlook people you know, especially if personal transportation is limited.  Some of the people closest to you have an abundance of change they've been saving up for years.  Even if they don't, they may be able to get to the bank for you and are the most willing folks to help you out.  Count it up in front of them or count it up accurately and treat them honestly.

Retail Stores
Big box stores are not always willing to exchange rolled coins for cash.  Supermarkets are much more flexible.  Don't expect to walk out with a box of coins.  These shops are good for a couple of rolls at a time.  Tell them the nephews are in town and they are much more willing to fill your request.  When shopping, paying with cash will get you change where a debit card gets you nothing.  If there is a store you frequent or know the owner, they may be willing to pick up a box of coins for you from time to time. 

Vending companies
Arcade games, laundry, sodas and snacks, and car wash are the most commonly coin operated machines.  There are companies that have these machines placed all over the state who hire staff to service the machines.  Besides repair, maintenance and stocking, the coin bins must be emptied from time to time, with the coins returning to the home or regional office to be rolled.  There is considerable volume, primarily in quarters.  You'll have to find the companies, talk to the manage or owner, and arrange to purchase the rolls.  Don't expect much in those rolls in terms of silver.  These companies are usually aware of the metal value and pull it out.  If they do, its a source of silver at spot.

Wishing well
Not such a good source.  These have been sitting in a pool for a while.  Often, the pools you see at the malls contain chemical such as bleach and cyanuric acid to control algae and maintain clarity. 

Church
After passing the plate, volunteers often take the time to sort and roll the change that is donated.  Talk to the elders, volunteer to help count and roll. 

BU Rolls
Coin shows often have dealers with a stock of BU rolls.  Some have been picked over, with the more recent years still unopened.  Those unopened rolls can bring a small premium for years with known varieties.  1969-S and 1971 cents usually sell for a little more as do 2005 nickels and 2009 everything.


Sewn Mint Bags

These are getting to be rather rare. 

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