Vermont Coin Quest: My Hunt for Hidden LCS Gems and Collecting Insights

My Road Trip to Vermont: A Numismatic Adventure

I recently packed my bags for Warren, Vermont – a trip fueled entirely by my coin collecting passion. As someone who lives and breathes numismatics, I couldn’t wait to explore local coin shops while soaking in Vermont’s gorgeous scenery and history. There’s something magical about how travel reinvigorates our hobby, don’t you think? You stumble upon unexpected treasures and see familiar coins through fresh eyes.

Discovering Top Coin Shops in Vermont

My LCS hunt focused around Warren and along my driving route. The real standout? Puro’s in Rutland came highly recommended by fellow collectors. Just remember – shops change over time, so I always peek at recent reviews before visiting. If you’re planning a similar trek, here’s what I’d suggest:

• Puro’s in Rutland: Definitely swing by if you’re nearby. They usually have a solid mix of coins and bullion, but give them a call first – inventory moves fast and hours can vary.
• Shop Smart: Take your time examining coins under good light. I’ve found Vermont’s smaller shops sometimes hide gems like colonial coppers or local tokens, especially if you chat up the owners about their backroom finds.

Metal Detecting Wisdom for Coin Hunters

No Vermont trip feels complete without swinging my trusty Dr Otek detector! Here’s what I’ve learned after countless hours (and buckets of rusty nails):

• Slow down your sweep speed – it’s tempting to rush, but patience rewards you with deeper, fainter signals from older coins.
• Seek out historical sites near settlements or old roads. My best finds? Early 19th-century large cents hiding where taverns or mills once stood. Just brace yourself for more iron than treasure – it’s part of the adventure!

Vermont’s Charms: More Than Just Coins

Beyond the coin shops, Vermont steals your heart. Standing at the Bennington Battle Monument, holding replica colonial documents, I felt history come alive in a way that perfectly complemented my numismatic pursuits. Warren Falls offered a stunning lunch spot, and those rest areas near Bennington? Surprisingly cozy for a quick coin cataloging break. Pro tip: Grab some local maple syrup – it’s the perfect sweet companion to your new acquisitions!

Practical Collecting Tips for Your Trip

If you’re plotting your own Vermont coin quest, here’s what worked for me:

• Route Planning: Main roads save time, but leave wiggle room for unplanned detours when you spot promising antique shops.
• Market Nuances: Watch for early American coppers and Vermont-specific tokens – they pop up more here than back home.
• Grading On-the-Go: Never buy without examining coins in natural light. My 10x loupe stays in my pocket for spotting cleaning or wear.
• Detecting Prep: Travel light with gear, and always get permission – farmers here are friendly if you ask first!

This trip reminded me why I love collecting: it’s not just about the coins, but the stories and places they lead you to. Whether you’re digging up colonial coppers or just breathing that mountain air while hunting silver, every moment feels like uncovering hidden chapters of history.