Proxiblog not only covers online coin auctions but also purchases and consigns coins from an array of auctioneers, dealing with various houses as well as Proxibid customer service. In the past week, we experienced three issues handled expertly by Proxibid, Weaver Signature Coin Auction, and Rolling M. Auction.

Placing hundreds of bids each week, mistakes are bound to happen. In several cases, we placed bids for the wrong type one-dollar gold coins. Proxibid customer service answers telephone calls personally, with agents providing their first names. They ask security questions and then quickly handle a multitude of issues, from computer glitches to bid retractions. They typically ask if they can be of additional service and always are upbeat and helpful.

This is a service that many auctioneers typically overlook when it comes to paying Proxibid fees, which not only expand the clientele base but also encourage return bidders.

Mistakes sometimes happen on the other end of the block. Because Proxiblog bids and consigns, often in the same auction–being careful not to bid on consigned coins (an unethical practice known as “shilling”)–auctioneers are faced with writing a consignment check and billing a credit card. Cheryl Weaver of Weaver Signature Coin Auction asked if she could deduct winnings from the consignment check, which was approved; but then the credit card also was billed erroneously.

Weaver not only acknowledged the error but expedited an additional check with her apologies. Dave and Cheryl Weaver are known for excellent customer service and that is a value added that keeps that auction house at the top of our rankings (see list to the right).

Finally, Mark Murphy of Rolling M. Auction contacted Proxiblog via telephone minutes before his onsite and online auction began. This time NGC made a mistake, labeling the 1932-S quarter dollar the rare 1932-D. Murphy closed out bids and rebid the coin, adding this description: “1932-S Washington Quarter NGC UNC Details NOTE: Holder States D, the coin is a S.”

People often overlook excellent customer service. But they remember the unprofessional kind. You’re not apt to experience the latter bidding or selling on Proxibid or patronizing our top auction houses.

Proxiblog is an independent entity with no connection to the auction portal Proxibid. Our intent is to uphold basic numismatic standards as established by the American Numismatic Association and the National Auctioneer Association and to ensure a pleasurable bidding experience not only on Proxibid but also on similar portals such as iCollector and AuctionZip.