How to assess the credibility of an online seller of collectible coins? [Guide]

Buying collectible coins online is becoming increasingly popular—but so is the number of fraudulent offers. Here is a 7-step checklist to help you check the seller before you click "buy."

Table of contents

• 1) Check the company's market status (WSE, reports, supervision)
• 2) Pay attention to membership in industry organizations
• 3) Look for verified awards and customer reviews
• 4) Verify certificates of authenticity
• 5) Rate the quality of information on the website
• 6) Fairness of the offer and payment security
• 7) Registration details, contact information, policies
• Frequently Asked Questions

1) Check the company's market status (WSE, reports, supervision)

Reputable sellers operate transparently. Mennica Skarbowa S.A. is listed on the NewConnect market of the Warsaw Stock Exchange (ticker: MNS) and publishes periodic and current reports, which increases transparency and information discipline towards customers and investors.

2) Pay attention to membership in industry organizations

Membership in recognized institutions is an important indicator of process quality. Mennica Skarbowa is an Affiliate Member of the LBMA, the global authority on the gold and silver market. Note: Affiliate status does not automatically mean that a particular refiner is included in the Good Delivery list, but it does confirm active participation in industry standards.

3) Look for verified awards and customer reviews

Awards based on consumer votes are additional proof of trust. Mennica Skarbowa was honored with the "Golden Consumer Laurel 2025" in the "Investment Products" category. Regular presence in the financial media and high recognition strengthen the brand's credibility.

4) Verify certificates of authenticity

Each collector coin/medal should have documented parameters: weight, fineness, year of issue, manufacturer, and possibly a serial number for verification. Avoid purchases "without papers" — this makes resale more difficult later on.

Pro tip: for investment products, check references to LBMA standards for the manufacturer of bars/coins, and for numismatic items, check grading (PCGS/NGC) and documentation of origin.

5) Rate the quality of information on the website

A reliable seller educates, not just sells: publications on authenticity, warnings about fraud, up-to-date investment guides. This builds long-term relationships based on trust. (On the Mennica Skarbowa website, you will find news and educational content, as well as constantly updated product price lists).

6) Fairness of the offer and payment security

• Market-based prices and clearly described costs.
• Availability and realistic shipping dates.
• Payment methods: cards, bank transfer (encrypted), cash on delivery at the branch.
• Logistics: shipment insurance and package tracking.
• The option of personal collection at a stationary location provides additional security.

7) Registration details, contact information, policies

Visible KRS/NIP, physical address, customer service department, terms and conditions, and return policy—these are the elements that should not be missing from a reliable seller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does LBMA affiliate membership guarantee Good Delivery of products? No. "Affiliate Member" is a recognized status of participation in the LBMA and access to standards, but it is not synonymous with a refiner's Good Delivery listing.

Is a company listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange safer? Listing on a regulated market or ASO (e.g., NewConnect GPW) entails disclosure obligations and greater transparency, which promotes safety.

What documents should I receive when purchasing a collector coin? A certificate of authenticity with parameters (weight, fineness, year, manufacturer), confirmation of the transaction, and for investment gold products — a reference to the manufacturer's standards.