DO NOT go to a coin show or coin shop not knowing something about what you're buying. If you start out looking for a particular rare American coin and the dealer steers you toward some other coin that looks interesting, but out of your area of expertise, you're ripe for paying too much for that coin. Resist the temptation to buy until you know and feel comfortable with what you're buying. Many brokers or dealers who make the most money are those who talk buyers into buying a coin they don't know much about. Stick only to what you know. If you're interested in the coin, go home and study that rare American coin and learn its current market value and availability. stare monety