Dennis Johnson, the owner of Center Street Gold & Silver, embodies a rare blend of expertise and heartfelt customer service in the precious metals industry. For Johnson, dealing in gold, silver, and coins isn’t just a business; it’s a passion rooted in a lifelong fascination with numismatics and a genuine desire to help people.
Dennis Johnson, owner of Center Street Gold & Silver, standing in his Tigard shop.
“My favorite part is when somebody really thanks me,” Johnson shares, his voice filled with emotion. “When they say, ‘I’m glad I found you,’ and that it’s been a pleasure doing business. Helping people truly is what it’s all about.” This customer-centric approach defines the ethos of Center Street Gold & Silver, making it a trusted hub for those looking to navigate the world of precious metals.
Johnson’s journey into precious metals began in childhood, trading earned pocket money for silver dimes and dollar coins. This early fascination evolved into a career as a stockbroker and financial advisor, eventually leading him to establish Center Street Gold & Silver over a decade ago. His extensive background in finance combined with his deep-seated passion for numismatics provides clients with a wealth of knowledge and reliable guidance.
One of the unique aspects of Center Street Gold & Silver is the sheer variety and history that passes through its doors. “Literally every week, we encounter something we’ve never seen before,” Johnson explains, marveling at the continuous stream of unique items. “It’s mind-boggling the amount of historical artifacts and different collectible products that have been accumulated over the years.” This constant discovery keeps the business dynamic and exciting, ensuring there’s always something new to learn and appreciate.
While Johnson has a personal fondness for historical pieces like Byzantine gold coins – artifacts that bridge ancient history with tangible value – he emphasizes the importance of specialized expertise. Center Street Gold & Silver benefits from a part-time numismatic expert who can delve into the intricate details of coins, currencies, and collectibles. “He can look at a coin and identify the die maker,” Johnson notes, highlighting the depth of knowledge available to customers. This expertise is invaluable for accurate evaluations, whether for single coins or extensive estate collections.
Reflecting the business’s success and commitment to growth, Center Street Gold & Silver is currently undergoing an expansion. By remodeling and incorporating adjacent space, Johnson is creating a more comprehensive service environment, including a dedicated office for private estate appraisals. “We will assess anything containing gold, silver, diamonds, or other precious metals, including collectible numismatic items,” Johnson states. This expansion allows for more comfortable and confidential consultations, particularly for smaller collections. For larger estates, Johnson continues to offer house calls, understanding the logistical challenges some clients face.
Beyond buying and selling metals, Center Street Gold & Silver also offers a curated selection of pre-owned jewelry. Johnson points out the value proposition, especially for items like wedding sets. “Young couples can find beautiful wedding sets here for significantly less than retail prices,” he explains, noting the appeal of quality jewelry at accessible prices. However, he advises clients to think carefully before selling heirloom diamonds. “If there’s a chance you might want to use a diamond in the future, keep it,” he recommends, emphasizing the often irreplaceable sentimental and intrinsic value of diamonds. “You’ll rarely be able to repurchase it for what you sell it for.”
At its core, Center Street Gold & Silver is more than a business; it’s a service built on trust, expertise, and a genuine desire to assist customers in making informed decisions about precious metals. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of gold and silver, Dennis Johnson and his team are dedicated to providing knowledgeable, honest, and helpful services.
Visit Center Street Gold & Silver at 8879 SW Center St., Tigard, OR. Open Monday-Friday 9 AM – 4 PM, and Saturday 10 AM – 2 PM. Explore more at centerstreetgoldsilver.com.
