Hard Money Matters

On this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and John Mabin of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry dive into the latest precious metals trends. They analyze gold's recent pullback from $4,000 as a healthy buying opportunity via dollar-cost averaging, explain why dealers pay below spot price on jewelry and bullion (due to overhead, holding periods, and market risks), and note improving silver spreads amid reduced backlog. The duo explores how rising metal values erode numismatic premiums on collectible coins, predicts AI's future role in grading and pricing coins (despite tactile challenges), and offers cautionary tips for buying coins abroad, including export rules and shipping options. Sponsored disclaimers emphasize risks and lack of federal regulation.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and precious metals expert John Mabin (owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry) dive into the chaotic silver market amid its rapid price surge. They explain "backwardation" — where futures prices dip below spot due to refinery backlogs, financing strains, and overwhelming sell-off volume — forcing dealers to buy at discounted futures-based rates while selling at higher immediate-delivery spot. Drawing parallels to the 1980 silver spike, they warn that prices rising "too fast" disrupt liquidity, unlike the smoother gold and platinum markets. The duo explores dealer cash-flow limits, why some shops pause buying, and investor psychology: many cash in profits despite discounts, while others keep buying for security. Shifting to broader economics, they adjust historical gold prices (e.g., 1985's $317/oz) for inflation, discuss dollar devaluation amid grocery shocks and trillions in debt, geopolitical risks (China/Russia tariffs), and skepticism toward BRICS reserve currency shifts or crypto overhauls. Ending on tangible assets as a hedge for uncertain times, the episode blends market mechanics with real-world financial anxieties.

On this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and precious metals expert John Mabin (owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton) unpack the shifting dynamics of pre-1934 U.S. gold coins, explaining why soaring bullion prices have crushed premiums on common dates—turning them into near-bullion buys with semi-numismatic appeal. They debunk myths about age equaling value, explore niche collectibles like old checks and stock certificates, and compare today’s global gold boom (fueled by central banks and geopolitical uncertainty) to the inflation-driven 1980 surge and the 2011 flight-to-safety rally. The duo also decodes obscure mint marks like “BM,” reveals why dealers break up curated collections, and offers practical advice for beginners: start with what you love, not what analytics dictate. A blend of market insight, history, and collector wisdom—plus a plug for free appraisals at Pegasus.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and guest John Mabin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, guide listeners through practical decisions in precious metals investing and coin collecting. They break down how to choose silver products (e.g., 1-oz rounds vs. 100-oz bars) based on premiums, liquidity, and budget; stress secure, personal storage over bank boxes or third-party depositories; and explain subtle premium differences in global 1-oz gold bullion coins (U.S. Eagles top the list, Krugerrands now mid-tier). The duo debunks myths around modern dollar coins (presidential, Sacagawea—face value only), celebrates the historical allure of Carson City Morgan dollars, and shares a real-life find: a 1955 doubled-die penny turned into $700 for its owner. A blend of actionable advice, market insights, and collector enthusiasm.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and John Mavin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the surging gold market. They debate whether record-high prices make now the ideal time to sell (or buy more), stress the dangers of buying metals on credit, and recommend keeping gold to 5-20% of a portfolio. The pair contrasts bullion’s straightforward hedge against inflation with the collector-driven coin market, warns against hype around “space-flown” Sacagawea dollars, and traces the Krugerrand’s legacy. Cash is declared “no longer king” in a cashless world, and John announces his semi-retirement in 2026, handing the reins to protégé Holden Pollock while pledging to keep the radio show alive. Listeners are reminded to visit pegavault.com or call 941-725-6100 for free appraisals.

In a role-reversal episode of Hard Money Matters, coin dealer John Mabin quizzes host Kyle Warren on 19 weeks of lessons in precious metals and numismatics. Kyle articulates the split between collectible coins (history-driven, subjective value) and bullion (inflation hedge, market-driven), stresses starting small with a trusted local dealer, warns against online/telemarketing traps, and advises never cleaning inherited coins. The duo agree: build relationships, trust instinct, and let passion—not just profit—guide the journey.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930 The Answer, host Kyle Warren and John Mabin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the growing issue of fake news and misinformation in the coin collecting and precious metals community. They discuss the proliferation of misleading online articles and social media posts that falsely claim certain coins, often with fabricated mint errors, are worth millions. These stories, driven by clickbait motives, lead to scams like paid apps with fake price guides and backlink farms, wasting collectors' time and misleading the public. John highlights the impact on coin dealers, who face frequent inquiries about nonexistent "rare" coins, and explains how legitimate errors differ from these scams. The episode also touches on genuine high-value coins sold at reputable auctions, like those by Heritage Rare Coin Galleries, and warns against manipulative sales tactics, such as cold calls and data harvesting. Listeners are encouraged to rely on established sources and professionals for accurate information and to visit Pegasus Coin and Jewelry for free verbal estimates on their collections.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and guest John Mabin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, discuss the impact of a recent U.S. Court of Appeals ruling that deemed most of President Trump's tariffs illegal, creating uncertainty that drives investors toward gold, silver, and collectible coins as safe havens amid global tensions involving China, Russia, and North Korea. John explains the double-edged sword of rising precious metals prices for local dealers, emphasizing the need for substantial working capital—far beyond what small shops can afford—and the challenges in securing bank loans due to the industry's nature. They advise advanced collectors on navigating auctions by reviewing past sales, leveraging personal knowledge, and consulting trusted dealers. The conversation explores niche collectibles like "bingles" (historical company tokens from remote areas such as Alaska), which form a thin market with limited value despite their storytelling appeal. John reiterates warnings against amateur coin cleaning, noting how grading services designate and devalue cleaned coins, while sharing stories of remarkable coin discoveries in attics, beaches, grounds, and even dog-dug sites. The episode wraps with a lighthearted anecdote about a customer rejecting a fair gold sovereign offer, underscoring the importance of experience in the coin business.

In this engaging episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930 The Answer, host Kyle Warren and coin expert John Mabin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the world of collectible coins and precious metals. They address common misconceptions about coin collecting, such as the belief that touching a coin makes it no longer uncirculated or that online prices always reflect a coin’s true value. John clarifies the difference between uncirculated and proof coins and explains how rising gold prices impact the jewelry trade, emphasizing Pegasus’s role in buying gold for its metal value at competitive prices. The discussion also covers the benefits of larger transactions, the absence of legal limits on gold ownership in most free countries, and the concept of cost averaging for investments. Additionally, they explore the historical significance of coins, including ancient standardization in coin production and the challenges of spotting counterfeits. Listeners are invited to visit Pegasus Coin and Jewelry for free verbal estimates and expert advice, with a reminder to tune in next Saturday at noon for more insights.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and coin expert John Mabin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the fascinating world of coin collecting and precious metals. They discuss how to start a coin collection with a $1,000 budget, with John recommending classic commemorative half dollars as an affordable and historically rich option. The conversation explores the diverse appeal of coin collecting, from Roman coins to modern U.S. Mint releases like the 2025 American Liberty high relief gold coin. John explains the distinction between dealers and investors, noting the challenges of coin investing due to market fluctuations and the rise of third-party grading for transparency. They touch on legendary rarities like the 1804 Bust Dollar and 1913 Liberty Nickel, the dangers of improperly cleaning coins, and the tight-knit coin community's efforts to recover stolen items. John shares a humorous anecdote about a rare 1958D Lincoln cent sold on eBay, highlighting the complexities of online transactions. The episode emphasizes the historical, artistic, and financial aspects of coin collecting while offering practical advice for enthusiasts.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and guest John Maybin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the world of coins and precious metals. They discuss the U.S. Mint’s 25th anniversary Sacagawea dollar, a limited-edition 24-karat gold coin with a mintage of 7,500, which sold out quickly and is now fetching high prices on the secondary market. John advises caution on its investment potential due to historical trends with similar low-mintage coins. The conversation also covers the lack of popularity of dollar coins like the Sacagawea and Susan B. Anthony, the challenges of collecting paper money compared to coins, and the risks of counterfeiting in both. They explore the surge in coin show popularity, the benefits of dealing with reputable dealers, and the impact of a recent Florida law removing a $500 tax threshold for coin and bullion sales. The episode concludes with a memorable story about a house call evaluation of a coin collection, highlighting the importance of trust and expertise in the industry. Listeners are invited to visit Pegasus Coin and Jewelry or tune in for more insights on AM 930 The Answer.

In this engaging episode of Hard Money Matters, host Kyle Warren and coin expert John Maybin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the intricate world of buying, selling, and collecting coins and precious metals. John shares his seasoned perspective, drawing from over four decades in the industry, offering practical advice on when to buy or sell—and when to hold back. He discusses scenarios where he might discourage customers from making transactions, such as selling inherited gold without a clear need for funds or purchasing beyond one’s financial means. The conversation also covers the realities of handling common wheat pennies, the minimal impact of penny retirement on the collector’s market, and the logistics of managing large or small transactions, including special orders and the associated risks. John expresses skepticism about the ego-driven nature of coin registry systems like NGC and PCGS, advocating for collecting based on personal enjoyment rather than competitive overpaying. Packed with insights, the episode emphasizes informed decision-making, customer service, and the nuances of the precious metals trade, inviting listeners to send questions for future discussions

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and guest John Maybin, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry in Bradenton, dive into the fascinating world of coin collecting and precious metals. They discuss the nuances of uncirculated coins, explaining that while condition significantly impacts value for older coins (pre-1960s), many modern uncirculated coins hold only face value. Storage conditions are highlighted as critical, with improper storage leading to corrosion and value loss. The conversation shifts to the rise of crossover collectibles, such as DC superhero-themed coins celebrating DC Comics' 90th anniversary, which appeal to fans but are often gimmicky and lack long-term investment value due to market trends driven by baby boomers. Security concerns are addressed, with Maybin debunking claims of "unfakeable" gold bullion bars, noting the prevalence of high-quality counterfeits, Rosalind, primarily from China, and the importance of expert testing. Maybin shares a road story about using psychology to secure better deals from coin dealers, illustrating the competitive nature of the trade. Finally, he explains Pegasus Coin and Jewelry’s no-appointment policy, emphasizing a customer-friendly approach. The episode blends practical advice, industry insights, and engaging anecdotes for collectors and enthusiasts.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry discuss gold’s utility and value, countering Warren Buffett’s view with examples of its use in AI and electronics, alongside silver and platinum’s industrial roles. Maben shares statistics on mined precious metals, highlighting silver’s undervaluation and his bullish stance on platinum, and notes the frequent discovery of pre-1964 silver coins in bulk from past hoarding. The conversation covers coin collecting supplies like the Boston Long 5x slide glass, a reliable light, and Crystal Clear showcases, advising against relying solely on internet data and favoring trusted dealers for valuation. Maben reflects on his road-trip coin-buying days, the rise in summer shop activity due to high metal prices, and the ease of insuring collections, emphasizing the growing hobbyist community and market dynamics in this unregulated industry.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry explore the intersection of politics, auctions, and liquidity in the coin and precious metals market. Maben notes that political laws impact the industry, while observing a predominance of conservative customers in his Florida store, though all political affiliations invest in hard assets. He discusses fluctuating gold-silver ratios, the real-time spot price updates (changing every 10 seconds), and the existence of futures markets for hedging by large dealers. Maben advises diversification for large investments, recommends coin clubs for enthusiasts, and warns against overvaluing auction prices or new proof coins from small nations, which often lose value despite marketing hype. He highlights gold, silver, and platinum as highly liquid, contrasting them with less traded metals like rhodium, emphasizing the importance of buyer awareness in this unregulated field.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry discuss the intricacies of coin collecting and precious metals, focusing on verifying dealer legitimacy and leveraging technology. Maben explains the lack of official registries for numismatists, suggesting credibility checks through affiliations like the Professional Numismatist Guild, years in business, and customer reviews. He advises caution at coin shows, emphasizing the importance of trusted relationships to avoid shady deals. The conversation also covers the joy of collecting, innovative products like the Vault Combi bar for affordable gold investments, and skepticism toward Texas and Florida’s moves to make gold legal tender, citing increased regulation risks. Maben discourages remote evaluations via text or email due to the need for hands-on coin assessment, reinforcing the value of in-person appraisals at Pegasus in this unregulated market.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry guide listeners on moving from collecting coins and precious metals as a hobby to a viable investment. Maben, with over 40 years of experience, advises against self-directed investing due to the high risk of costly mistakes, recommending instead to work with a trusted dealer for confidence and education. He suggests starting with low-risk metal investments (gold, silver, platinum) rather than numismatic items, tailoring strategies to individual goals like long-term holding or short-term profit. The discussion also covers market fluctuations, the impact of industrial demand on rare metals, and the pitfalls of including precious metals in IRAs, favoring physical ownership over managed accounts. Maben explains the evaluation and melting of used jewelry for gold value, noting that only rare pieces are resold, highlighting the dynamic and personalized nature of investing in this unregulated field.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry discuss how to identify trustworthy companies in the precious metals market. Maben, with over 40 years of experience, highlights red flags such as cold calls, high-pressure sales tactics, and fear-based pitches often used by marketing-focused "boiler room" firms disguised as reputable dealers. He advocates for face-to-face transactions and education over impulsive purchases, emphasizing Pegasus’s role in guiding customers without pushing sales. The conversation also addresses elder fraud risks, the dangers of house calls by dealers, and the irrelevance of customer-made coin lists for professional evaluations. Maben explains the historical shift away from silver in U.S. circulating coins post-1964, the prestige of the Professional Numismatist Guild, and the differences between pawn shops and specialized dealers like Pegasus, reinforcing the importance of informed decision-making in this unregulated industry.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and John Maben of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry explore the dynamics of buying and selling coins and precious metals. Maben explains how Pegasus maintains a manageable inventory, relying on special orders for larger transactions, and emphasizes the face-to-face approach over shipping due to security concerns. The discussion covers the declining value of proof and mint sets due to a shrinking collector base, the risks of overpaying at estate sales, and the modest markups (2-6% for bullion, 10-40% for numismatic coins) compared to higher margins in telemarketing or jewelry sales. Maben warns against "traveling roadshow" scams that exploit uninformed buyers and shares how age influences investment preferences, with younger buyers favoring gold and seniors often selling for liquidity. He also highlights Pegasus’s adherence to anti-money laundering regulations, including refusing suspicious cash transactions, underscoring the risks and lack of federal oversight in the industry.

In this episode of Hard Money Matters on AM 930, host Kyle Warren and guest John Maben, owner of Pegasus Coin and Jewelry, discuss the importance of vigilance in the precious metals market, emphasizing the principle of "caveat emptor" (let the buyer beware). Maben, with over 40 years of experience, warns against unscrupulous companies and high-pressure sales tactics that exploit hype, often leading to overpriced products or scams. He highlights the value of building trust through face-to-face relationships at Pegasus, contrasting this with impersonal telemarketing firms. The discussion covers pitfalls like unreliable shipping methods (e.g., FedEx or UPS) that risk theft, the concept of premiums over spot prices, and the misconception that a coin’s age determines its value. Maben stresses educating customers to make informed decisions without providing financial advice, offering insights into industry practices and the importance of condition over age in numismatic coins.