Foster's Coin & Stamp Co

Doesn't Recommend

half cent

Joined 2 years ago

very rude. Posted Saturday hours were 1 - 4 PM. Arriving early, I returned a bit after 1 PM. I asked to see half cents (my speciality) and was told by the owner "I threw that junk away". His tone was serious and did not offer to show me anything. I then asked for some coin supplies, explaining I was also a Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor and got no response. I was then told by Mr. Foster that he had to go make a Xerox copy of a multi-million dollar wire transfer and that I should come back later "when you are ready to do business". His manner was rude. He never offered to show me any coins, never inquired what my interests were and rushed me out of the store. He never indicated how long he would be away from his shop. Had he said he would have been gone even 30 minutes, I would have returned to see if his inventory had something of interest.

What Mr. Foster doesn't realize is that he turned away a serious coin collector with an extensive coin collection. His rudeness has ensured that I will never return and that I could never recommend his store to any Bay area visitor.

Recommends

Mike w

Joined 2 years ago

Great Store. Nowhere Better.. Mr. Foster is an expert not only on coins and stamp but on the economic state of the world, and is always willing to have a great conversation about such issues. His prices are extremely competitive when it comes to both buying and selling, his selection is abundant, and he has a wealth of knowledge about anything you would need in his store.

Also, ask him about his book Fiat Paper Money, which details the rise and fall of the world's paper currencies throughout history. A very compelling and shocking read that really illuminates Mr. Foster's genius.

Doesn't Recommend

kiriyama1000

Joined 3 years ago

The man at the coin shop.. I strongly suggest before you enter this store, that if you intend on selling or getting appraisal do the following.

1. Do a little bit of research on your item

2. Document and even photograph your item as proof of your ownership

3. Consider Ebay or anything before this place

When I entered this store I had several UNCIRCULATED $1 & $2 from 1930-1960. One of them was a mint Hawaii dollar from 1935, already had been appraised around $100. He told me that my bills weren't worth anything. As I was putting my bills away, he takes one from the cluttered table and walks to back with it. I confront him exclaiming, "Excuse, I'm not sure but I believe that bill was mine." He immediately berates with insults, some quite offensive. I say, "There is no reason to act like this. Is there a way we can figure this out?" I point out to him that there are numerous sign stated that I was on camera. He tells me that, "If you have a problem with me then come behind the counter and see what happens." I am not a small person, and a more than half his age the younger. Long story short the cops come and because I hadn't originally documented my 40+ bills there is nothing I can do but small claims court, which was more effort than I was willing you use. This is the first review I have ever written for I never have this sort of problem. Do not be a victim as I was, and skip this disturbed man's scattered remains of a store...

Recommends

CheesyPizza

Joined 5 years ago

Nice atmosphere. Good deals to be had.. Went down to Foster's Coin in Berkeley to spend an afternoon on my coin collection. Found a good selection and good prices for Morgan silver dollars, foreign coins, and stamps. The owner is friendly and conversant in numismatics.

Recommends

WinstonSmith

Joined 5 years ago

A Great Coin Shop for Stamps too. This is my kind of store, a place to hang out and talk to the very knowlegable owner about the complex economic issues of our day. Things are a bit of a 'mess' stamps and coins all over the place but a visual feast. The owner,Mr Foster does not suffer fools easily but I like that. A person who doesnt stand for foolishness and wimps. He, after you get to know him is a great guy. This is a great place to take your kid. He is the author of a superb stamp book for kids and adults, The Lost Stamps of America and also the author of a book on paper money vs coin money called Fiat Money. Foster is flexible with his prices and will wheel and deal with you a little if you show the right attitude. ya gotta be a little gruff in this mans world and this is Berkeley, Jake, so get with it and head over to Fosters stamps n' coins.

Recommends

drGutan

Joined 5 years ago

Courteous and Professional. Competitive prices.. My colleagues recommended Berkeley Coin as a place to sell my collection.

I called ahead and received friendly, professional service.

Prices were the best in the area. I had no trouble selling my extensive collection, and received payment the same day. The owner is well-versed in all areas of the hobby. Store has a wide selection of coins, stamps, and accessories.

I also enjoyed reading Fiat Paper Money, the history and evolution of our currency--a new book just authored by the owner. At 267 pages, it is a comprehensive review of fiat paper money systems. An excellent complement to any collection of specie.

Heartily recommend this establishment to all.

Recommends

Morris637

Joined 5 years ago

TOP DOLLAR -- FAST SAME DAY PAYMENT. ME AND MY FRIEND WENT DOWN TO CHECK OUT THE VALUE OF HIS COINS. MAN IT WAS SOMETHING TO FIND OUT THEY WAS WORTH FIVE TIMES WHAT HE GOT EM FOR. DUDE IS ALL GOOD. KINDA WEIRDO THOUGH. HAS LIKE A TON OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT MONEY N STUFF. WE WAS IN AND OUT IN NO TIME, AND GOT OUR CASH AT THE BANK LIKE FIVE MINUTES LATER. DUDE WANTED TO SEE ID, THOUGH. AINT OUT OF POCKET.

Recommends

CoinGuy

Joined 5 years ago

Great prices and fast service. Instant liquidity.. Great place to sell the old coins lying around the house. Service was prompt and no-nonsense. The owner is a little rough around the edges, but competitive when it comes to prices. Will work with you. The shop itself is a delightful blend of coins, stamps, flags, and even a few books. The location is convenient to Bart and Shattuck Avenue. Would definitely recommend.

Doesn't Recommend

jamoq

Joined 5 years ago

what a rip off!. This guy is a real piece of work. He rips of college students who dont know the true value of what they have and thats what has kept his buisness going. While this may not be illegal, morally it is repugnant. I have never left there with a good feeling and he shows little interest in folks who come in off the street. I will no longer patronize his buisness.