San Mateo is an affluent suburb on the San Francisco Peninsula, located roughly half an hour’s drive from San Jose and San Francisco. While this Californian city is home to leading technology and healthcare firms today, it grew from relatively humble roots.
The Ohlone Indians lived in the land that became San Mateo for at least 4000 years before European explorers arrived. Spanish explorers looking for land to establish a new colony reached San Mateo in 1776. They established missions and set about teaching the natives about Christianity. In 1822, California learned of Mexico’s independence from the Spanish. The missions became secularized and free settlers claimed large parcels of San Mateo land. They established Grand Ranchos and built an economy on agriculture.
In the mid-1800s, San Mateo ushered in a new era. It became a stagecoach stop, and later the railroad passed through, linking San Mateo with San Jose and San Francisco. Buildings sprang up around the railroad tracks, and San Mateo began to grow into the modern city it is today.
As part of the fabled Silicon Valley district, contemporary San Mateo is home to several wealthy technology professionals. Residents wanting to diversify their portfolios or grow their collections look to the city’s gold and silver traders.
Jencek Historical Enterprise
(650) 804-4841
205 De Anza Blvd. #149
San Mateo, CA 94402
Jencek Historical Enterprise has sold ancient and world coins to collectors and buyers since 1997. It was founded by John Jencek, a professional numismatist and lifetime member of the American Numismatic Society, the American Numismatic Association, and the Ancient Coin Collectors Guild. Jencek Historical Enterprise’s unique inventory includes historic items like Celtic didrachms, Indian drachms, and Danish rigsbank skilling coins. The store only operates by appointment, so prospective customers should call ahead to set up a time to view its collection.
Camino Coin
(650) 348-3000
1301 Broadway
Burlingame, CA 94010
Camino Coin is a family-owned and operated business. Every one of its traders has their own precious metals collection, so they understand the industry and the passion of their customers. The store has a diverse range of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium bullion in round, coin, and bar forms. Camino Coin also sells U.S. and foreign collectible coins, including Morgan and Peace silver dollars. All its coins are graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. Camino Coin is located in Burlingame, less than two miles southwest of San Mateo.
Numis International
(650) 697-6570
301 Broadway
Millbrae, CA 94030
Numis International has operated since 1963, and been a member of the Better Business Bureau since 1977. It currently holds an A+ rating. The business buys and sells a range of precious metal products including rare and collectible coins and silver, gold, and platinum bullion coins and bars. Numis International is in Millbrae, a little over four miles from San Mateo.