Coins of Paradise: The Best Coin-Dealing Spots in Honolulu

Numismatists live all over the world, and each representative of this everlasting community strives to find the most prosperous and reliable spot for their coin hunt. The paradise of the distant land cannot be an obstacle but a major attractor for those who trade coins and develop the market at the same time. Hawaii with its flourishing city of Honolulu is the right place to explore the exotic landscape of numismatics. 

Although one may not expect to see great volumes of coin shops in Hawaii, Honolulu boasts several exceptional spots that may captivate even the most fastidious collectors and coin investors alike. So, which places are worth visiting? Let us check.

What’s Up With The Local Coin Market? 

The commercial space of Honolulu reflects a fascinating combination of history, exotics, and newly emerging demands gathered in one place. The location of coin collector Honolulu laid the foundation for this city to comprise and present Hawaiian, Asian, and American coins simultaneously. Once a kingdom, this area saw dynasties passing by, each leaving its own traces, some of which are reflected in coins, e.g., the Hawaiian dollar or “Dala”, and other economic/cultural artifacts. 

As Honolulu mixes various numismatic creations that made their way to Hawaii during different phases of history, one may be amazed by how diverse and rich this market can be. In fact, many Hawaii coin shops experience great interest in both investment-focused instances and collectible coins, like valuable Jefferson nickels, promoted by auction houses, coin shops, and individual dealers, who acquire unique examples from tourists in the first place. So, which companies are the most favored yet reliable in Honolulu?

Top-3 Coin Dealers Honolulu

Generally speaking, the market may seem a bit overwhelming and confusing, as it gradually gets even more popular and warmly welcomes new distributors each year. For newcomers and those unfamiliar with the Hawaiian numismatic traditions, we have compiled useful information about the spots with a wide range of coins, history, and authentic atmospheres that make them solid and irreplaceable. 

Hawaiian Islands Stamp and Coin

The first stop on the numismatic map should be made near the Hawaiian Islands Stamp and Coin Company known for its legacy of more than 50 years in this business. Located in the Ala Moana area, this shop successfully attracts those looking for coin supplies, paper money, stamps, and coins themselves. Should you wish to explore the cultural background of Hawaii before its US annexation, Hawaiian Islands Stamp and Coin is an amazing store of choice.

Nevertheless, apart from the traditionally accepted and distributed instances, this organization focuses on foreign coins, precious metals, and other units of currency that may be interesting for the local numismatists and average coin lovers, too. Just imagine, the staff managed to acquire and trade the Hawaiian 1847 coin set! History as it is. Coin shops are no longer simple hubs for trading only but the right places to get educated and learn more about the coins with professionals by your side.

Captain Cook Coin Company

The list of the most respected and favored spots for coin-related endeavors usually starts with the Captain Cook Coin Company, a private organization responsible for coins and currency, tokens, medals, and vintage jewelry of all sorts. What is vital is that the owner of the company is an authorized dealer recognized by such majors as PCGS, NGC, and more. It is always important to understand that the source of your collection is reliable and transparent in terms of its authenticity. You can even find here Jefferson nickels with different mintages, if you’d like to.

True to its name, the company was named after a well-known British explorer who first charted the Hawaiian islands, just like this company that constantly reinvents treasures of the numismatic world. What they generally do necessarily includes evaluation, price estimation, and possible certification (in collaboration with the companies that may officially issue these documents ONLY). Great job, Captain Cook! 

ABC GT Coins

Another trusted company that focuses on precious metals (particularly gold and silver bullion, as well as numerous coin-related services is ABC GT Coins. The main stack of their offers usually refers to grading opportunities (delivered by their official partners), coin exchange, and trading as well. Although the selection provided by ABC GT Coins might be a bit smaller, it is prized for the personalized approach and staff willing to offer the most extraordinary coin ever. 

As for the grading services, this might help investors ensure the authenticity and value of their possessions. However, by the numismatic law, there are a few organizations that may deliver such solutions on a legal level, e.g., the above-mentioned PCGS and NGC. In this case, ABC GT Coins act as a mediator between a client and a company that is to issue a certificate and attribute a unique ID to the coin. Everything picky clients may wish for.

Struggling with Coins? Pro Tips on How to Choose a Coin Dealer

1. Examine the Dealer's Reputation

In the coin industry, reputation is the key. Do your research before choosing a dealer, seek out dealers who have a proven record of successful deals and established ties to the community, and ask for advice from other collectors who have the experience to share. A good dealer means a strong reputation and networking inside the industry. 

2. Evaluate the Dealer’s Expertise 

Not all dealers are specialists in every area, and the coin market can be complicated anyway. In addition to being proficient in the market as a whole, an experienced coin dealer should focus on their own areas of interest. Do not hesitate to ask questions to determine their level of experience during your first visit or discussion. An excellent dealer should be ready to share their expertise, provide advice, and assist you in learning more about the coins.

3. Ensure They Offer Additional Services

Additionally, a lot of prominent coin dealers offer services including coin grading, authenticity, and appraisals. For collectors who wish to determine the actual value of their coins or guarantee that their collection is up to date, these services can be quite helpful. Verify the dealer's affiliation with reputable grading organizations, as this definitely demonstrates a dedication to excellence and transparency.

4. Utilize Coin-Related Apps to Double-Check 

Sometimes, trust does not come as it is, and one may wish to double-check others’ opinions and conceptions. So as to always be ready to appeal to the experience of the numismatic community, download a coin identifier like Coin ID Scanner to have useful information about the history, particular coin types, defects, and other aspects available all the time. By the way, this app offers immediate coin identification that can be done in a few steps: 

• Open the Coin ID Scanner application;

• Click on the Camera button located on the tab bar; 

• Follow the prompts suggested by the app’s system and take photos of the coin you aspire to analyze; 

• Receive quick feedback regarding the coin and its fair market value and rest assured coin dealers do not lie.

Honolulu is indeed one of those destinations that each person should visit at least once. Apart from being a paradise in the mundane world, it intricately combines traditions of different cultures reflected in such amusing relics as coins. To explore how vivid and diverse this sphere can be, visit local stores and dealers and enjoy the peculiar nature of numismatics in the area.

Sources: 

1. https://hawaiianislandstampandcoin.com/ 

2. https://captaincookcoin.com/