Hello, my name is Joses (rhymes with Moses). I grew up in Hawaii, but my family’s roots go back many generations in Illinois. I spent many summers visiting my grandfather here—an avid coin collector and dealer—who passed down his passion for coins and the stories they tell. That early connection sparked a lifelong interest in history, art, and the numismatic world.
After graduating from Southern Illinois University (SIU), a career in technology brought me to Chicago. Over the years, I worked in corporate settings and also with several coin shops and jewelry stores, handling both digital and in-person operations. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how different businesses approach buying, selling, and connecting with customers — as well as the importance of trust and transparency in every transaction.
Eventually my life came full circle, leading me back to the world of coins and collectibles I first explored as a child. In 2014, I opened Oakton Coins & Collectibles in Skokie — a shop built to be organized, secure, efficient, and friendly. From the start, my goal was to create a place where every transaction is transparent, educational, and handled with integrity.
Located just minutes from Rogers Park and Evanston, Oakton Coins quickly became known for performing all testing right in front of customers, turning each visit into an honest and engaging experience.
Every day brings something new: coins, gold, jewelry, militaria, presidential autographs, and entire estate inheritances from across the country. We handle everything from single appraisals to full estate divisions — often helping families fairly divide inheritances and avoid conflict during emotional times.
At Oakton Coins, I meet every kind of person imaginable — from collectors and investors to families simply cashing in old pieces. As I often say, “We’re really just an exchange.” People sometimes think selling means desperation, but that’s not the case. We serve everyone — from millionaires to students to retirees — each at their own moment in life.
As metal prices have risen, our work has become more serious and professional than ever. While expanding the physical store may happen someday, my current focus is strengthening our online presence and connecting with more Chicago-area communities.
Whether you’re visiting from Rogers Park, Evanston, or out of state, you can expect a friendly, safe, and trustworthy experience at Oakton Coins & Collectibles.
Oakton Coins is a lifetime member of several respected public and private coin-dealer organizations and professional networks, reflecting decades of experience, integrity, and commitment to the highest standards in the coin and jewelry trade.
