Cornering the Market

Covering all coin collecting needs

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Certified Coin Consultants
8 S. Village Ave., Rockville Centre
(516) 218-2094, www.certifiedcoinconsultants.com

A series of life situations led Derek Sawchenko to open Certified Coin Consultants three years ago. For two decades, collectively, he worked as a financial advisor, currency trader, and in wholesale eyewear. Along the way, he dealt with customers who invested in precious metals — coins and the bullion market. Finally, he connected with a neighbor’s son, Bob Engelhard, who worked in the coin industry. Sawchenko researched the Internet, took courses, built relationships and resources, and subsequently changed careers. He brought along Engelhard, who is now executive buyer, a major part of the business.

Sawchenko’s interest in metals and coinage has evolved into a passion. He started out in office space in Lynbrook, selling online and over the phone. In June of this year, he moved the business into a storefront in Rockville Centre. This way, Certified Coin Consultants can offer a variety of services.

Whether you are looking to sell an entire coin collection, a handful of coins you found lying around, or to purchase a specific numismatic coin, Certified Coin Consultants can help. Coins can be purchased by the weight of the precious metal, and/or by the collectible value. They will also purchase silver and gold in any form such as silverware or jewelry.

They will appraise smaller quantities of coins (under 50) for free, and charge a nominal fee for larger collections. If a coin collection is too large or heavy to bring in, an expert will come to your home. Should you want coins to be professionally graded, a fee will be charged and the coins will be sent to a professional grader. This is especially important for “Key Date” coins, which are the rarest and most valuable of their denomination.

Sawchenko’s goal is to “do the right thing.” He encourages customers to become educated, and suggests they explore the Internet to get familiar with the coins they have. He can show customers a price guide, such as the Red Book. He will also call existing customers who are collectors to inform them when coins they might want are available. Selling is done via the company website, EBay, privately and in the store.

“We purchase 99 percent of the coins people bring into the store,” Sawchenko said. “It’s important to us to offer a fair price for metals and coins. Our goal is to be reputable. We’ve earned an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, and are authorized dealers for both the PCGS and the NGC, professional organizations that offer top grading services.”

Business hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, and by appointment only on Sunday.