Littleton Coin Company Reviews: Fees, Complaints, Free Coins, and More

7.4Expert Score

Littleton Coin Company

They have substantial experience in helping people invest in precious metals and bullion products.

Trust

Fees

7.9

Customer Service

Reputation

7.5

Pros

Educational Resources
Large Product Selection
Experienced Team

Cons

Limited Online Presence

Littleton Coin Company: Unique Highlights Overview

Littleton Coin Company, established in 1945 by Maynard and Fannie Sundman in Littleton, New Hampshire, has become a prominent name in the numismatic community. Their dedication to quality, customer service, and innovative programs distinguishes them in the industry. Here are some unique highlights of the company:

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Extensive Product Selection

Diverse Inventory: Littleton offers a comprehensive range of coins, including U.S. and world coins, paper money, ancient coins, and bullion bars. Their catalog caters to both novice and seasoned collectors, providing items from various countries, time periods, and denominations.
Exclusive Series: The company has introduced exclusive collections, such as the State Birds & Flowers series, featuring unique designs that appeal to collectors seeking distinctive items.

Educational Resources

Learn Center: Littleton’s website features a Learn Center, offering information on coin collecting, guides to U.S. and world coins, and insights into coin production. This resource supports collectors in expanding their knowledge and making informed decisions.
Blogs and Articles: They regularly publish articles and blog posts on various numismatic topics, providing collectors with up-to-date information and engaging content.

Customer-Centric Services

On Approval Service: Littleton offers a unique “on approval” service, allowing customers to examine coins before purchasing. This approach ensures satisfaction and builds trust, as collectors can assess items firsthand before making a commitment.
45-Day Money Back Guarantee: Demonstrating confidence in their products, Littleton provides a 45-day money-back guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction and peace of mind with each purchase.

Employee Ownership

Employee-Owned Structure: In 2017, the Sundman family sold their stock to the company’s 315 employees, transitioning Littleton Coin Company to an employee-owned model. This structure fosters a dedicated workforce committed to the company’s success and customer satisfaction.

Commitment to Quality and Authenticity

Expert Grading: The company pledges to provide accurately graded coins and paper money, ensuring customers receive the best value for their investments. Their team of experts meticulously evaluates each item for authenticity and quality.
Exclusive Clubs: Littleton offers membership in exclusive clubs, such as the Classic Silver Coins of the World Club, allowing collectors to assemble curated collections of historic silver coins from around the globe.

Historical Significance

Legacy in Numismatics: With a history spanning over seven decades, Littleton Coin Company has played a significant role in promoting coin collecting as a hobby in the United States, contributing to the growth and education of the numismatic community.

These highlights underscore Littleton Coin Company’s dedication to providing quality products, exceptional customer service, and educational resources, solidifying their reputation as a trusted leader in the numismatic industry.

Who are the People Behind Littleton Coin Company?

Littleton Coin Company, founded in 1945 by Maynard and Fannie Sundman, has evolved into a prominent numismatic firm based in Littleton, New Hampshire. The company is distinguished by its leadership team and its transition to employee ownership.

Founders

Maynard Sundman (1915-2007): Maynard’s passion for collecting led to the establishment of Littleton Coin Company. Under his guidance, the company expanded significantly, becoming a major player in the collectibles market. citeturn0search11

Leadership Transition

David M. Sundman: Joining the family business in 1972, David succeeded his father as president in 1985. He played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and, in 2017, facilitated the transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), making the company 100% employee-owned. In 2020, David was elevated to Chairman. citeturn0search2

Current Leadership

John Hennessey: Serving as President and CEO since 2020, John previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer from 2007 to 2019. His extensive experience in financial management has been instrumental in guiding the company’s strategic direction. citeturn0search10
Stephen Brooks: As Chief Operating Officer since October 2019, Stephen oversees various operational departments, ensuring the company’s efficiency and commitment to quality. citeturn0search12

Employee Ownership

In 2017, under David Sundman’s leadership, the Sundman family sold their stock to the company’s 315 employees, transitioning Littleton Coin Company to a 100% employee-owned model. This move was aimed at rewarding the dedicated team and securing the company’s future. citeturn0search4

Company Overview

Location: Littleton, New Hampshire
Revenue: Estimated at $50 million annually
Employees: Approximately 315
Products: Specializes in U.S. and world coins, paper money, and related collectibles

The combined expertise and dedication of Littleton Coin Company’s leadership and employee-owners have solidified its reputation as a trusted name in the numismatic industry.

Please note: For the most current information, it’s advisable to contact Littleton Coin Company directly or visit their official website.

Does Littleton Coin Company Offer IRA Services?

Littleton Coin Company does not directly offer Individual Retirement Account (IRA) services. However, they provide a selection of precious metal products that are eligible for inclusion in self-directed IRAs. Here’s how the process works:

Self-Directed IRA Setup

Custodian Selection: To include precious metals in your retirement portfolio, you must establish a self-directed IRA through a qualified custodian that permits investments in physical precious metals. Littleton Coin Company does not act as a custodian, so you’ll need to choose one independently.

Purchasing IRA-Eligible Products

Product Selection: Littleton offers a range of coins and bullion that meet IRS requirements for IRA inclusion. These products can be found under the “Coins and Currencies” tab on their website. It’s essential to verify that the specific items you’re interested in comply with IRS standards for purity and eligibility.
Coordination with Custodian: Once you’ve selected the appropriate products, your IRA custodian will facilitate the purchase using funds from your IRA account. Littleton Coin Company can ship the purchased metals directly to your chosen depository as instructed by your custodian.

Storage Requirements

Approved Depository: IRS regulations mandate that precious metals held within an IRA must be stored in an approved depository. Your custodian will coordinate the storage arrangements to ensure compliance with these regulations.

Important Considerations

IRS Regulations: Ensure that all transactions adhere to IRS rules regarding precious metals IRAs, including restrictions on the types of metals allowed and storage requirements.
Custodian and Storage Fees: Be aware of any fees associated with the IRA custodian and the storage depository, as these can impact the overall returns on your investment.
Consultation Recommended: It’s advisable to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to fully understand the implications of investing in a Precious Metals IRA and to ensure it aligns with your individual retirement goals.

While Littleton Coin Company does not provide IRA custodial services, their selection of IRA-eligible products can be a valuable resource for investors looking to diversify their retirement portfolios with precious metals.

What Products Can You Purchase at Littleton Coin Company?

Littleton Coin Company offers a comprehensive range of numismatic products and related accessories, catering to both novice and seasoned collectors. Their inventory includes:

U.S. Coins

Classic and Modern Issues: From early American coinage to contemporary releases, including cents, nickels, dimes, quarters, half dollars, and dollar coins.
Commemorative Coins: Special issues celebrating significant events, anniversaries, and notable figures in U.S. history.
Proof and Mint Sets: Official sets produced by the U.S. Mint, featuring coins with exceptional finishes and craftsmanship.

World Coins

International Currency: Coins from various countries, offering a global perspective for collectors interested in diverse numismatic pieces.
Ancient Coins: Artifacts from ancient civilizations, providing historical insights and unique collecting opportunities.

Paper Money

U.S. Banknotes: A selection of historical and modern paper currency from the United States.
World Banknotes: Paper money from countries around the globe, showcasing diverse designs and cultural significance.

Bullion

Precious Metals: Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products for investment purposes, including bars and rounds.
Bullion Coins: Official bullion coinage from the U.S. Mint and other international mints.

Collecting Supplies

Storage Solutions: Coin albums, folders, and holders designed to protect and organize collections.
Magnifiers and Tools: Equipment to assist in the examination and grading of coins.
Reference Materials: Guides and books providing valuable information for collectors.

Themed Collections and Gifts

Specialty Sets: Curated collections based on themes, historical periods, or specific series.
Gift Items: Numismatic-themed gifts suitable for special occasions and holidays.

Littleton Coin Company is renowned for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, offering a 45-day money-back guarantee on all purchases.

Littleton Coin Company Fees and Pricing:

Littleton Coin Company is a well-established numismatic dealer offering a wide range of coins, paper money, and related collectibles. Understanding their pricing and fee structure is essential for making informed purchasing decisions. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Product Pricing

Premium Pricing: Littleton is known for pricing its products at the higher end of the market spectrum. This premium reflects their commitment to quality, including accurate grading, comprehensive guarantees, and exceptional customer service. citeturn0search20
Transparent Listings: Each item is listed with its price, allowing customers to review and compare before making a purchase. While prices may be higher than some competitors, the value-added services and guarantees provided by Littleton contribute to the overall cost.

2. Shipping and Handling Fees

Standard Shipping: For orders under $100, a flat shipping fee of $6.95 is applied, with an expected delivery time of 7-10 business days. Orders of $100 or more are shipped free of charge. citeturn0search14
Rush Shipping: Customers desiring expedited delivery can opt for rush shipping at a rate of $18.90, with delivery typically within 3 business days. citeturn0search16
International Shipping: Littleton primarily ships to U.S., Canadian, and APO/FPO addresses. Standard shipping to Canadian addresses is available for $11.95, with an estimated delivery time of 7-14 business days. citeturn0search16

3. On-Approval Service

No Membership Fees: Littleton offers an on-approval service, allowing customers to examine coins before purchasing, without any membership fees or obligations. This service provides flexibility and convenience for collectors. citeturn0search5
Return Policy: Items sent on approval can be returned within a specified period if not purchased, with no additional fees, provided they are returned in unaltered condition. This policy ensures customer satisfaction and confidence in their purchasing decisions.

4. Return Policy and Guarantees

45-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Littleton stands by a 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to return purchases within this period for a full refund or exchange, ensuring complete satisfaction. citeturn0search9

5. Sales Tax

Applicable Taxes: Sales tax is applied based on state regulations. Customers are advised to review the sales tax policy on Littleton’s website or consult customer service for specific information related to their location.

6. Additional Considerations

Promotional Offers: Littleton occasionally provides promotional discounts, free shipping offers, or rewards points, which can offset some costs. Subscribing to their newsletter or regularly checking their website can keep customers informed about such deals.
Payment Plans: For select items, Littleton may offer payment plans, allowing customers to pay in installments. Details and availability can be obtained by contacting their customer service.

Conclusion

While Littleton Coin Company’s pricing may be higher compared to some competitors, the premium reflects their dedication to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction. The transparent fee structure, comprehensive guarantees, and value-added services provide collectors with confidence and peace of mind in their purchases.

Please note: Prices, fees, and policies are subject to change. For the most current information, it’s advisable to visit Littleton Coin Company’s official website or contact their customer service directly.

What Do Littleton Coin Company Reviews Say?

Littleton Coin Company, established in 1945, has garnered a range of customer reviews across various platforms. Here’s an overview of their ratings and customer feedback:

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Rating: A+
Accreditation: Accredited since January 13, 2011
Customer Reviews: The company has received over 400 reviews, with most customers reporting positive experiences. In the past three years, 93 complaints have been closed, with 17 closed in the last year.

Trustpilot

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Customer Reviews: Based on 81 reviews, indicating a “Great” rating. Customers have praised the company’s product quality and customer service.

Sitejabber

Rating: 3.1 out of 5 stars
Customer Reviews: From 87 reviews, opinions are mixed, with some customers expressing satisfaction with their purchases, while others have raised concerns about pricing and sales tactics.

Shopper Approved

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Customer Reviews: Based on 119,176 reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction regarding product quality and service.

TripAdvisor

Customer Feedback: Mixed reviews, with some customers expressing dissatisfaction with business practices, while others appreciate the company’s offerings.

Why aren’t There Many Littleton Coin Company Complaints?

The relative scarcity of complaints about Littleton Coin Company is likely due to several factors that reflect their longstanding commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Here’s a detailed look at why they have fewer complaints:

Strong Reputation and Legacy

Decades of Experience: Established in 1945, Littleton Coin Company has been a trusted name in the numismatic industry for over 75 years.
Industry Leadership: Their legacy and reputation as one of the largest coin dealers in the U.S. instill confidence among collectors and investors, reducing negative experiences.

Focus on Customer Satisfaction

45-Day Money-Back Guarantee: This generous return policy ensures customers can purchase with confidence and return items if dissatisfied.
On-Approval Service: Their unique program allows customers to review coins before committing to a purchase, reducing buyer’s remorse and potential disputes.

High-Quality Products

Expert Grading: Littleton is known for accurately graded coins, ensuring buyers receive high-quality products that match their expectations.
Guaranteed Authenticity: Every item sold comes with a certificate of authenticity, minimizing concerns about counterfeit products.

Proactive Customer Support

Complaint Resolution: Littleton Coin Company actively addresses complaints filed on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and resolves issues to the customer’s satisfaction.
Accessible Support: Their customer service team is known for being responsive, friendly, and helpful, making it easier to resolve disputes before they escalate.

Transparency in Business Practices

Clear Pricing: While their prices are often higher than market averages, Littleton is upfront about their premium pricing model, which reflects the added value of guarantees, quality control, and customer service.
Educational Resources: Littleton provides extensive information to educate customers about coin collecting and market trends, helping buyers make informed decisions.

Employee-Owned Structure

Dedicated Workforce: As a 100% employee-owned company, Littleton’s staff has a vested interest in the company’s success and reputation, fostering a culture of accountability and customer care.

Comprehensive Product Range

Broad Inventory: Their diverse selection of U.S. and world coins, paper money, and bullion appeals to a wide audience, ensuring collectors find items that meet their needs.
Customization and Flexibility: The ability to tailor purchases to collector preferences reduces dissatisfaction.

Positive Customer Reviews

Strong Ratings: High ratings on platforms like Trustpilot (4.2/5) and Shopper Approved (4.7/5) reflect widespread customer satisfaction.
Repeat Business: Many of their customers are loyal collectors who return for the quality and trustworthiness of their products and services.

Addressing Criticisms

Acknowledging Concerns: Littleton Coin Company recognizes criticisms about their pricing and sales tactics and works to improve transparency and communication.
Educational Efforts: Their resources aim to educate buyers on the value of their products, mitigating complaints about perceived overpricing.

Minimal High-Risk Transactions

Focused Clientele: Littleton primarily serves collectors and hobbyists rather than high-risk speculative investors, reducing the likelihood of disputes over market fluctuations or investment losses.

Are There Any Littleton Coin Company Lawsuits?

There has only been one instance.

In 2007, the FTC conducted an inquiry into Littleton Coin Company’s advertising and marketing practices. The investigation concluded without any formal action, as indicated by a closing letter from the FTC.

It’s important to note that while this incident exists, they have not resulted in significant legal actions against the company. Littleton Coin Company maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting a commitment to resolving customer complaints and maintaining ethical business practices.

Can You Trust Littleton Coin Company? Is Littleton Coin Company Legit?

Yes.

They are a legit company.

Littleton Coin Company’s emphasis on quality, transparency, and proactive customer care contributes to their lower complaint rate.

Their policies, educational initiatives, and dedication to resolving issues foster trust and satisfaction among their clientele, reinforcing their reputation as a reliable and respected numismatic dealer.

Whenever you’re interested in checking the history of any company, follow these tips:

Tip #1: Check Their Regulatory Compliance and Accreditation

Check for proper licensing and registration with relevant financial regulatory bodies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Verify the company’s accreditation with industry organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).

It will help you check how credible they are.

Tip #2: Look into The Company’s Background

Research the company’s history, including years in business and any name changes.
Examine the Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and accreditation status.
Review customer feedback on reputable third-party review sites like Trustpilot or Consumer Affairs.

Tip #3: Does the Company Offer Good Resources?

Assess the clarity of information provided about fees, storage options, and buyback policies.
Evaluate the quality and depth of educational resources offered to investors.
Verify that the company provides clear information about IRS regulations regarding precious metals IRAs.

Tip #4: What are Their Product Offerings and Pricing?

Ensure the company offers IRS-approved precious metals for IRA investments.
Compare pricing with other reputable dealers to ensure competitiveness.
Be wary of companies pushing numismatic or collectible coins over bullion for IRA investments.

Tip #5: Confirm the Storage and Custodian Partnerships

Verify that the company works with IRS-approved custodians and secure storage facilities. According to IRS’ regulations, you cannot store your gold IRA’s precious metals at your home.

You’ll need a certified third-party storage provider.

Check the company’s storage and custodian partner to ensure you’re working with a reliable firm. Moreover, ensure they offer segregated storage options for your precious metals.

Segregated storage means your owned precious metals products will be stored separately from other investors’ possessions. Similarly, non-segregated storage means your products will be stored along with others.

Keep in mind that storage providers charge extra for segregated storage.

Some popular custodians include Equity Trust and Goldstar Trust.

Red Flags to Watch For in Gold IRA Companies

Promises of guaranteed returns or claims of “secret” investment strategies.
Pressure to act immediately or make large investments without proper consideration.
Lack of physical address or unclear company ownership structure.
Unwillingness to provide detailed information about fees or policies in writing.

By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, investors can make an informed decision about the legitimacy and reliability of a gold IRA company. It’s crucial to conduct due diligence and, if necessary, consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.