Unearthing Numismatic Treasures: My Quest for Vermont’s Best Coin Shops

I’ve always loved coin collecting, so when I planned a road trip to Warren, Vermont, I naturally kept an eye out for promising local coin shops. You know how it is—there’s nothing quite like stumbling upon that perfect little shop where you might uncover something special for your collection. Given Vermont’s deep colonial roots, I was especially hopeful about finding early American pieces.

Finding Great Local Coin Shops

While mapping out spots near Warren, one name kept popping up: Puro’s in Rutland. Though it’s been a while since my last visit, I remember it having a solid mix of everything from bullion to error coins and graded material. When I check out any coin shop, here’s what works for me:

• See what’s in the cases—a good spread from modern metals to historical pieces usually means they know their stuff
• Chat with the staff about grading (PCGS or NGC standards). The best dealers will happily share their thoughts on condition and authenticity without pushing prices sky-high
• Do quick price checks against current markets, especially for silver and gold—I often peek at CoinTrackers on my phone right there in the shop

A quick call ahead saves disappointment—shops change focus over time, and you wouldn’t want to miss a gem because they closed early for the day!

Metal Detecting for Buried Treasures

I also brought along my Dr Otek metal detector to scour an old property—you never know what might be hiding under the soil! Through trial and error, I learned that slowing down the sweep speed made a real difference. It helped pick up faint signals from deeper, smaller targets like old coins hiding among junk. If you’re giving detecting a try:

• Move the coil slowly and steadily—racing misses those quiet whispers from deep targets
• Old settlements, battle sites, or historic properties often hold the most promise for 18th or 19th century finds
• Jot down where you find things, and handle discoveries carefully—even common coins tell stories about the past

History Comes Alive Through Coins

Visiting places like the Bennington Battle Monument really reminded me why I love this hobby. Seeing colonial-era artifacts with intricate details took me right back to handling early American coppers and state tokens—you can almost feel the craftsman’s care in every strike. And yes, I made sure to try Vermont’s famous maple syrup too! It’s a sweet reminder that coin collecting isn’t just about the metal—it’s about connecting with places and their stories. I’ve noticed shops in historic areas sometimes undervalue local pieces, so keep an eye out for Vermont-related coins.

Parting Thoughts from the Road

My Vermont trip blended coin hunting with gorgeous scenery perfectly. Whether you’re browsing shop cases or scanning fields with a detector, this state’s history and landscape make it a collector’s dream. Just remember to plan breaks—nothing kills the treasure-hunting vibe like sore feet or low energy. Here’s hoping your next hunt turns up something brilliant!