Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Pawn Loans and Precious Metals in Escondido
Escondido Coin & Loan has been a trusted family-owned business since 1959, serving as the oldest continually operating coin shop between San Diego and Riverside. Our expertise spans numismatics, precious metals, and estate jewelry, with a commitment to fair pricing and exceptional customer service. We prioritize secure storage for pawned items, competitive loan rates, and a curated selection of gold, silver, and platinum products.Our team includes certified numismatists and gemologists, ensuring accurate appraisals and personalized guidance. Located in historic downtown Escondido, we combine decades of industry experience with a customer-centric approach to meet diverse needs, from investment-grade coins to estate jewelry transactions.
Services
Pawn Loans
Precious Metals Sales
Estate Jewelry Appraisals
Coin Grading
Jewelry Buyback
Details
- Year established: 1959
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1959 with deep local roots
- Certified numismatists and gemologists on staff
- Secure 24/7 monitored vault storage for collateral
- Competitive rates on short-term pawn loans
- Extensive inventory of investment-grade precious metals
What people say
Great experience
Honest and fair
Best price on spot
Knowledgeable staff
Excellent service
Services
Pawn Loans
We offer state-regulated pawn loans secured by valuable items. Collateral is stored in a reinforced vault with 24/7 monitoring. Loans require valid ID and have a four-month term with a 10-day grace period. Our transparent $10 processing fee structure avoids hidden charges.
Precious Metals Sales
We buy and sell gold, silver, and platinum bullion including coins and bars. Transactions occur in-store with payment options like cash or cashier's checks. Our pricing aligns with spot market values, offering competitive rates for investment-grade metals.
Estate Jewelry
Our inventory features pre-owned gold and platinum jewelry obtained through forfeited loans or direct purchases. Items undergo ultrasonic cleaning and appraisal by GIA-certified gemologists. We offer appraisal services and competitive buyback options for select pieces.
Coin Appraisals
Certified numismatists provide accurate valuations for collectible coins and currency. We assess items based on market demand, rarity, and condition without charge for basic evaluations. Written appraisals available for documentation purposes.
Jewelry Appraisals
GIA Graduate Gemologists conduct detailed jewelry appraisals for insurance or resale purposes. Evaluations consider craftsmanship, material quality, and market trends. Appraisals accompany high-value items sold in our store.
People
Ray Ellis
President
Ray Ellis leads operations with decades of numismatic expertise, maintaining the store's reputation for integrity and customer-focused service since joining the family business.
Jim Ellis
Vice President
Jim Ellis oversees daily management, leveraging extensive experience in precious metals and estate jewelry to ensure consistent quality and competitive pricing.
Mac McKelvey
Numismatist
Mac McKelvey specializes in coin grading and currency evaluation, providing expert insights that attract collectors and investors to our store.
Tonya Beckham
Manager
Tonya Beckham manages store operations, ensuring smooth customer experiences and maintaining the family business's high service standards.
Kay Ellis
Administrative Director
Kay Ellis handles operational paperwork, contributing to the store's efficient management and regulatory compliance since joining the family team.
Questions
What identification is required for pawn loans?
Valid government-issued photo ID and proof of ownership for collateral items are required. Borrowers must be at least 18 years old.
Do you loan on items other than coins and jewelry?
We primarily loan on items we trade, like precious metals and collectibles. We occasionally accept tools, electronics, or musical instruments based on resale potential.
How are precious metal prices determined?
Prices track real-time spot market values with minimal markup. Gold and platinum coins typically carry 2-5% premiums over spot prices.
Can I get jewelry appraised without purchasing?
Yes, we offer appraisal services for $25-50 per item, conducted by GIA-certified gemologists using industry-standard evaluation methods.
What happens if I default on a pawn loan?
Items not redeemed within the four-month term plus 10-day grace period become store property. We notify customers via mailed reminders before finalizing defaults.
Do you buy used jewelry from individuals?
We purchase gold, platinum, and select silver jewelry based on current market demand. Visit our store for a free evaluation of your items.
Reviews (5)
Elizabeth Zemola
Apr 01, 2020
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Jim the owner is a more than fair, compassionate christian business man. His integrity is without question, and he is the only pawn broker I trust.
Aaron M.
Feb 16, 2020
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I come her every other week to purchase silver, and a few coins. These guys always treat me and my son like friends. A true family owned vibe. Will continue to do business here for a long time.
Christian R. Orozco
Jan 08, 2019
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First time buying silver coins and bars, staff was super knowledgeable and more than willing to answer all of my questions. Just a heads up, they don't display all of they're silver. The bargain stuff is in the back, just ask!
Chris Graciano
Feb 04, 2018
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Needed some quick cash. Got a loan against some coins I had. At a surprisingly low interest rate. Beats any cash advance place. They are professionals not judgemental and I highly recommend them.
William Lolli
Mar 21, 2016
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Extremely knowledgeable about bullion. Good quality and honest service. "Mac" has a thorough knowledge of domestic and foreign coins. Wide variety. I like the "buckets" where bargain silver can be purchased with low premium markups.
