American Historic Coins

 

Let’s say that in 1915, you put a 20-dollar bill into an envelope, and you also invested $20 in gold.  Today, you open the envelope and find $20.  The gold could be worth about $2,000.

“A lot of what we do is educate,” says Tyler O’Connor, president of American Historic Coins & Collectibles in Bellingham.  “We help the customer understand movements in the economy and how holding a physical asset, like coins or gold or silver, might be in their best interest.  We’re more than just a coin shop.”

The store is located at Bellingham Plaza on North Main Street and offers the visitor a panorama of coins and collectibles to consider.  You can also bring in coins, collectibles, and precious metals for appraisal and possible purchase by the store.

“It is great to have a ‘coin shop’ so close that has knowledgeable people who are willing to interact with their guests,” writes Jay Emmitt on Facebook.  “From advice, insight, help and sharing of ideas to selling you the right coin… they do it all!”

American Historic Coins & Collectibles was first opened in December 2015, by Tyler’s father.  He was a longtime coin collector (he has since passed away).  Tyler took over the business in 2017 and, last year, was joined by his brother, TJ.  Third generation O’Connors – six- and 11-year-old sons – spend time in the store and are “interested” in helping.

 The COVID pandemic had a significant impact on the O’Connors’ business.  It was closed for a couple of months in 2020 recalls Tyler.  “But during the pandemic, people stayed and worked at home, saved their money, and got stimulus checks from the government.”

And now, many want to invest in a tangible asset.  “Some are looking for specific coins,” says TJ.  “But there has been a mental shift to incorporate gold and silver into their portfolios.”  

“Recently,” according to Tyler, “inflation and the war in Europe have driven interest even higher in investment grade coins, gold and silver bullion, while some traditional assets have lost value.”

Uncertainty in the economy has caused customers to investigate metals – particularly gold, silver, platinum, palladium, copper, and iridium.  “During a time of transition, when there is fear and doubt, customers can be triggered,” explains Tyler.  “We can offer assistance,” adds TJ, “and help customers preserve their purchasing power.”

Having a “trusted and reliable source” to turn to, says Tyler, will help make any purchases safer.  He says not long ago, an entire shipping container (like the ones on ocean-going vessels) turned up filled with fake coins from China.  And there are lots of scams online.  “We stand behind what we sell… not like eBay or others on the web,” says Tyler.

A ”grand re-opening celebration” is planned for May 7 from 11am-4pm.  Tyler says to look for “sidewalk sales, pop-up tents and a local silversmith who will be melting and pouring.”  

“We are in this business for the long term,” says Tyler.  “We try very hard to be open, transparent and welcoming; that’s how we provide more than just intrinsic value.”

Find out more about American Historical Coins & Collectibles at www.ahcoinco.com or call (508) 657-9002.  The store is located at 15 North Main Street in Bellingham and is open every day except Sunday and Monday.