I don't typically write reviews, but I felt this particular interaction warranted an honest review of events. I am so hoping it was just a mistake, but unfortunately, I was shortchanged $142 when selling some personal family heirlooms at Paul's Coins in Holly Hill, and when considering the evidence (the receipts are attached for your review), sadly, it appears to have been deliberate.
In the interest of being 100% honest, Paul and all of his staff are extremely likable. Especially Paul, who could charm a snake! So much so, I hardly noticed that his whole demeanor changed ever so briefly when he quickly and quietly ordered his young female staff member to fill out the receipt and "Just total it and write US Coins" to separate them from the watch, before turning back to me and switching back to his charming persona for deflection.
It caught my attention because he went from jovial and friendly to purposeful, calculated, and acting with intent. He dropped the mask only momentarily, providing a glimpse into his real intention. I must admit, it was slick.
I honestly didn't want to sell my father's 1959 Rolex (worth $2500 retail). I didn't even think a coin shop would be interested, but when Paul saw it in the box, he recognized the type and era, stating he has one similar to that and loves it. I explained that even though I desperately need the money, I had already turned down $1500, but Paul really liked it and said he would wear it personally, which made all the difference to me, so I agreed to $1750, only because I do need the cash at the moment.
Look closely at the receipt I attached. It would have taken no time to itemize the receipt properly to reflect the watch's value at $1750 and the coins portion at $792. Actual agreed values were:
Morgan Dollars $592 Silver $200 Rolex $1750 Total $2542
I am saddened to say, it seems obvious this was indeed intentional on Paul's part. Look at the receipt and ask, "Why in the world would Paul instruct the girl to write the receipt like that?"
I understand this is Paul's business, and I also realize it is my fault for being lulled into trusting Paul and not paying attention. Paul completely covered himself legally. I even signed the receipt, so I realize that I have no legal recourse here. In effect, Paul essentially ripped me off, "Fair and square." Lol!
However, after the realization hit, I felt somewhat betrayed and, with a sad heart, must point out that Paul's actions reflect an extremely low character and a dishonest spirit, especially when considering the circumstances. Unfortunately, that kind of sneaky dishonesty isn't something that goes away easily once it has been ingrained in someone's heart and casually practiced so nonchalantly.
In light of my experiences locally, I would strongly advise NOT to do business with Paul's Coins. I am hoping he wouldn't treat his regulars this way, but if you do go there, I would advise being very careful and not letting your guard down. Double-check receipts and be sure everything is ITEMIZED, no matter how much you like Paul, or how long you have been a customer. Most reasonable people will agree that the receipts and evidence attached to this review is undeniable, damning, and prove intent.
After my experiences with several local shops, my honest local recommendations would be Daytona Coins for coins, and Masterpiece Jewelers for gold.
I won't be holding my breath, but if by some chance it was just a mistake and Paul wants to make it right, I would be more than happy to edit the review and refrain from posting my story along with the evidence on any other review sites or social media platforms.
If not, oh well, that is life, and really, no hard feelings on my end either. We all know what it is like to get ripped off. It wasn't my first time, and most likely, won't be my last. Admittedly, this one hurts more because Paul ripped me off on my father's watch, which he had since the 1950s.
At least now I can feel good about warning others so they may be able to benefit from my experiences.
Stay safe, be vigilant,...
Read moreGreat coins store. I buy and sell coins and rounds often. They have beautiful stuff I've purchased a lot from although I've sold mostly to them. Employees are very nice and decently knowledgeable about numismatics. The owner Paul is a super nice guy and I'm pleased whenever I see him there. He's got so much more experience and knowledge than me or anyone really. They have the supplies you will need to continue or start a coin collection of your own. I mainly deal with silver and the ask price has been all over this year so I will say sometimes I've left completely defeated a total loss when other times I did as expected but I've got to say this too when spot was 29.50 I was only offered $17 ( way under melt) for raw peace and Morgan dollars each on 3 occasions while spot was at 26 they paid $21... It doesn't make sense to me but it doesn't have to. They offered me a service that was greatly needed so I am not upset I'm happy to have a place to go where I feel welcome even with my young son who is about to be 4 years old. I am delighted to learn new things from Paul and the guys. I always feel welcome and I'm not the easiest customer because I'm selling a lot of times when I don't want to and I'm somewhat of a newbie compared to them most definitely. They have awesome stuff. I could lose myself there. The greatest thing that I got there was knowledge and a Redbook. Thank you Paul for asking me if I had 1 because my ex took my last book a couple years ago and I really should have already had one. So you know they're fair he was offering me one of the top price and info guides on US type coins and such. Also I should say they told me to hold onto the silver dollars I just needed cash due to some personal issues. I plan to go in a few weeks because I collect a lot of stuff they get in. Thank you for...
Read moreSo what can I really say about Paul's coin shop. Nothing bad that's for sure. I've had nothing but a great experience so far working with them. It's a friendly place with a great staff who are dedicated to their profession. I have ordered a couple time from them, I'm in Chicago and they are in Florida. So it's hard sometimes not being able to see the coin you ordered. You need trust and you need to be able to feel that you are being taken care of. This is not an inexpensive hobby. So when you order and spend money you want to feel good about it. I would be remiss if I didn't mention Jordan. I was introduced to him from a family friend and has quickly become my go to for all my coin questions and needs. He's fantastic. Treats me like a real friend someone who he's known for a long time. I feel comfortable with his choices when he picks. I trust his advice when it comes to my idea for My future collection. I want to pass something down that's truly worth something some day to my daughter. And Jordan totally understands and is on board with helping me with moving forward. I really appreciate pauls coin shop and what they have to offer....
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