About Us

Robert R. Johnson Coin and Stamp Company, Inc. of San Francisco is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent companies in the fields of numismatics and philatelics. Founded in 1954 by renowned expert numismatist Robert R. Johnson, the company is known for its integrity, professionalism, and high level of experience.

Over the years, the company has built and developed strong relationships with clients throughout the world. The values and principles upon which Mr. Johnson founded the company many years ago still exist today. The professionals at Robert R. Johnson Coin & Stamp Company will always take the time to answer your questions, address concerns, asses and explain values, procedures, timing, and any other aspect of your particular transaction. Our company has earned the reputation of treating clients fairly and with respect.

The Robert R. Johnson Coin and Stamp Company, Inc. is an authorized dealer for the Professional Coin Grading Service and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation. We are also longtime members of the American Numismatic Association and the American Philatelic Society. As well as, the American Stamp Dealer’s Association, Ephemera Society of America, Manuscript Society, U.S. Classics Society and Collector’s Club of New York.

Located in the Union Square area of San Francisco in the historic Hearst Building, the company has served Northern California and the world for nearly 60 years.

Robert R. Johnson (Founder) 1928 – 2010

Robert R. Johnson was a 20th century icon in the world of rare coins. He was a master numismatist internationally renowned for his extreme knowledge of rare U.S. and world coins with an emphasis on gold coins. He established the Robert R. Johnson Coin & Stamp Company in San Francisco in 1954. The cornerstones of honesty, integrity, and expertise upon which he built the company are still in place today.

Over the course of his long career, Robert had the distinct pleasure of handling the purchase and sale of many major rarities in the numismatic field, including the coveted Panama-Pacific Exposition Commemorative Gold Set #1. He is also known for the conservation and restoration of gold coins recovered from sunken treasure ships including the Brother Jonathan, a steamer ship that was carrying millions of dollars in gold coins. He was one of the first dealers in the United States to establish relationships with foreign national banks, buying U.S. gold coinage and returning it to America. Robert R. Johnson was a life member of the American Appraisers Association. He also served as president of the prestigious Professional Numismatists Guild between 1975 – 1977.

Understanding the depth of Robert’s knowledge in numismatics and philately is only part of his legacy. He was also a humanitarian well known and loved for his pleasant nature and helping hand. Robert delighted in sharing his knowledge of coins with his clients. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest figures in the field of numismatics.

Konstantin Balter (President)

Konstantin Balter has been involved with numismatics for over forty years. He started his collection of coins as a young man in Europe and he has dedicated most of his life to the study of worldwide coins. He has worked with the leading international auction houses and dealers as a buyer and seller and is a recognized specialist in U.S. and world numismatics, especially Russian coins, medals, and paper money. Mr. Balter became president of the Robert R. Johnson Coin & Stamp Co., Inc. in 2008 and is the company’s senior numismatist and bullion trader.

Ronald F. Umile (Philatelic Consultant)

Ronald F. Umile is one of the world’s foremost experts on rare U.S. and foreign stamps and postal history.