Sell Foreign Currency in San Francisco: 2026 Guide

Last Updated: January 13, 2026

Have a drawer full of leftover euros, pesos, or yen from past travels? What about foreign currency inherited from a relative’s estate? If you’re wondering where to sell old international currency in San Francisco, you’re not alone. Thousands of Bay Area residents hold onto foreign notes and coins worth real money, yet many don’t realize these bills and coins can be converted to cash at specialized currency exchange outlets right in the city.

San Francisco’s rich history as a Pacific trade hub dating back to the Gold Rush era means the city has long been a center for international currency exchange. Today, modern currency exchange services continue that legacy, offering residents and visitors the ability to convert foreign money—including discontinued notes and select coins—into U.S. dollars. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about selling foreign currency in San Francisco, CA in 2026.

Quick Answer: Where to Sell Foreign Currency in San Francisco

Currency Exchange International (CXI) at San Francisco Centre (833 Mission St, near Powell BART Station) accepts over 80 foreign currencies including old notes and limited coins. They offer better rates than banks or airports through their Best Rate Guarantee and Currency Price Protection programs, with no appointment needed for walk-up service.

Key Takeaways:

• CXI accepts 80+ currencies including discontinued bills and specific coins
• Coins must be pre-sorted: 1 & 2 EUR/CAD/GBP and 10 & 20 MXN only
• Rates typically beat banks and airport kiosks by 5-10%
• No appointment necessary—walk in during business hours
• Bring valid government-issued ID for all transactions

Understanding Foreign Currency Exchange Options in San Francisco

San Francisco’s position as a global city and Pacific gateway means multiple options exist for currency exchange, but not all venues accept old or discontinued foreign money. Understanding the landscape helps you maximize the value of your international currency holdings.

Specialized Currency Exchange Outlets vs. Traditional Banks

Most traditional banks in San Francisco, CA no longer offer foreign currency exchange services to non-account holders, and even customers face limited options. Banks that do exchange currency typically handle only major currencies (EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY) and refuse coins entirely. They also charge higher spreads—the difference between buy and sell rates—often 8-15% above interbank rates.

Specialized currency exchange providers like Currency Exchange International fill this gap. Founded in 1998, CXI operates 40 U.S. branches including the San Francisco Centre location, offering exchanges for over 80-90 currencies. Their competitive advantage comes from volume—they stock major currencies daily and can handle exotic or discontinued notes that banks won’t touch. This makes them the go-to option when you want to sell foreign currency in San Francisco efficiently.

What Foreign Currency Can You Actually Sell?

Not all foreign money is accepted at exchange outlets. Here’s what CXI and similar providers typically handle:

Accepted Notes: Current and discontinued paper currency from 80+ countries including EUR, GBP, CAD, MXN, JPY, AUD, CHF, and many others. Even old bills replaced by new designs (like pre-2013 USD designs) can often be exchanged.

Accepted Coins (Limited): Only specific denominations are accepted at most U.S. currency exchanges, and they must be pre-sorted by type and value. CXI accepts 1 and 2 euro coins, 1 and 2 Canadian dollar coins, 1 and 2 British pound coins, and 10 and 20 Mexican peso coins. No other foreign coins are exchanged.

Not Accepted: Damaged, torn, or heavily soiled notes; most foreign coins outside the specific denominations listed; commemorative or collector coins (these should go to specialized coin dealers for proper appraisal); and currencies from countries under U.S. sanctions.

San Francisco’s Currency Exchange History and Modern Market

Since the 1840s Gold Rush, San Francisco operated an independent currency market handling sterling, yen, Hong Kong dollars, rupees, and other foreign currencies tied to Pacific trade. Institutions like Lazard Frères established foreign exchange operations here in 1851, while Chinese and Japanese banks like Sumitomo and Bank of Canton opened branches around 1900 to facilitate international commerce.

Today’s retail currency exchange market serves a different clientele—travelers, immigrants sending remittances, estate executors, and collectors—but the city’s legacy as a globalization hub persists. The Financial District (94104) and areas near Union Square (94102, 94108) remain centers for currency services, continuing a 170-year tradition of international money movement through the Bay Area.

Common Mistakes When Selling Foreign Currency

Many people lose money unnecessarily when converting old international currency. Avoiding these pitfalls ensures you get fair value for your foreign notes and coins.

Exchanging at Airport Kiosks

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) currency kiosks charge spreads of 10-20% or more—essentially keeping 10-20 cents of every dollar exchanged. For example, if the market rate for euros is 1.10 USD per EUR, an airport kiosk might offer you just 0.95 USD per EUR when you sell. On €500, that’s a difference of $75 lost to unfavorable rates.

We’ve seen countless Bay Area residents who cleared out deceased relatives’ estates bring foreign currency to SFO kiosks out of convenience, only to realize later they could have received hundreds more dollars by visiting a downtown exchange office instead. The 20-minute BART ride from SFO to Powell Station pays for itself many times over.

Not Sorting Coins Before Exchange

Most currency exchanges require coins to be pre-sorted by denomination and currency type before they’ll accept them. Showing up with a mixed jar of international coins will result in rejection or significant delays. CXI and similar providers need coins separated into: 1 EUR coins, 2 EUR coins, 1 GBP coins, 2 GBP coins, 1 CAD coins, 2 CAD coins, 10 MXN coins, and 20 MXN coins. Other coins have no exchange value at currency outlets.

Additionally, coin exchange rates are typically 15-20% lower than paper currency rates due to the sorting, counting, and shipping costs associated with metal currency. If you have valuable foreign coins with numismatic value (rare dates, silver content, commemorative issues), don’t exchange them—have them evaluated by professionals who provide written appraisals instead.

Waiting Too Long with Discontinued Currency

When countries replace their currency (like several European nations switching to the euro in 2002), central banks typically offer exchange windows that eventually close. While private exchange services may continue accepting old notes for years afterward, they gradually reduce the rates offered as liquidity dries up. If you have pre-euro Italian lira, Spanish pesetas, or German marks, act sooner rather than later—each year that passes reduces exchange options and rates.

Best Approach to Selling Old International Currency in San Francisco

Maximizing the value when you sell old international currency in San Francisco requires preparation and knowing where to go. Follow this strategic approach for optimal results.

Research Current Exchange Rates Before You Go

Check the mid-market exchange rate (also called the interbank rate) for your currencies on Federal Reserve data or financial websites. This gives you a baseline to compare against offers. Expect retail sell rates (what you receive) to be 3-8% below the mid-market rate at competitive exchanges—anything more than 10% below suggests you should shop around.

Currency Exchange International offers rate guarantees: their Best Rate Guarantee promises to match or beat competitor rates, and their Currency Price Protection locks in rates for up to 48 hours if you order online. Taking advantage of these programs helps ensure fair value, particularly for larger amounts over $500.

Prepare Your Currency Properly

Before visiting an exchange office in San Francisco, CA:

• Count and organize bills by denomination: Group $100s, $50s, $20s together by currency type
• Sort coins if applicable: Separate accepted denominations (1 & 2 EUR/CAD/GBP, 10 & 20 MXN) and set aside other coins
• Inspect for damage: Notes with tears, stains, or missing pieces may be rejected or discounted
• Bring government-issued ID: Passport, driver’s license, or state ID required for all exchanges
• Note the total amount: Know approximately how much you have in each currency

When our customers in the Financial District or South of Market neighborhoods visit currency exchanges, we recommend calling ahead for large amounts (over $2,000 equivalent) to ensure adequate USD cash on hand, especially for less common currencies.

Compare Multiple Options When Possible

While CXI at San Francisco Centre is convenient and competitive, getting quotes from multiple sources maximizes value, especially for amounts over $1,000. Options in the Bay Area include currency exchange offices in other major cities (Oakland, San Jose), online currency buyback services, and in rare cases, collectors or dealers for historically significant notes.

For numismatic coins with potential collector value—anything pre-1965 U.S. silver, foreign gold coins, commemoratives, or rare dates—skip currency exchanges entirely and consult San Francisco coin dealers who can assess numismatic premiums. A coin worth $5 at face value might be worth $50 or $500 to collectors, but a currency exchange will only pay the metal or face value.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sell Foreign Currency in San Francisco

Follow these steps for a smooth transaction when converting your old international currency to U.S. dollars.

Step 1: Verify Currency Acceptability

Before making the trip, confirm your specific currencies are accepted. Call CXI at (415) 512-1320 or check their website for the current list of accepted currencies. For discontinued currencies (like legacy European notes), ask specifically about current acceptance and approximate rates. Some very old currencies (50+ years) may no longer have exchange liquidity.

Step 2: Visit During Optimal Times

Currency Exchange International at 833 Mission St operates during business hours typically Monday-Saturday (verify current hours before visiting). Tuesday through Thursday mid-mornings (10-11 AM) typically see the shortest wait times. Avoid lunch hours (12-1 PM) and late afternoons when foot traffic from Union Square and the Westfield San Francisco Centre peaks.

The location is accessible via BART’s Powell Street Station (one block away) and is near the intersection of Mission and 4th Streets, making it convenient for residents throughout the Bay Area. Street parking is limited—consider the nearby 5th & Mission Garage.

Step 3: Complete the Transaction

Present your organized currency and government-issued ID at the counter. The exchange representative will:

1. Count and verify your foreign currency
2. Calculate the total in USD at their current sell rate (the rate they pay you)
3. Present the offer for your acceptance
4. Process identification verification and complete required documentation
5. Provide USD cash or, for larger amounts, potentially a check or bank transfer

The entire process typically takes 10-20 minutes for straightforward exchanges, longer if coins require counting or if you have multiple rare currencies. Bring a bag or envelope for your USD cash, and count it carefully before leaving the counter.

Step 4: Keep Transaction Documentation

Save your exchange receipt for tax purposes. While most personal foreign currency exchanges aren’t taxable events (you’re simply converting money you already owned), large transactions or currency from inherited estates may have reporting implications. Consult a tax professional if exchanging over $10,000 or if the currency came from an inheritance or estate settlement.

What Affects Foreign Currency Exchange Rates?

Understanding rate factors helps set realistic expectations when selling old international currency. Exchange rates fluctuate based on multiple variables beyond anyone’s control.

Mid-market rates: The baseline interbank rate between currencies, constantly changing based on global forex markets. What you see on Google or financial news reflects this mid-market rate, which no retail customer receives.

Exchange spread: The difference between buy and sell rates. Currency exchange businesses make money on this spread. Competitive providers like CXI typically maintain 3-8% spreads on major currencies, wider spreads (8-15%) on exotic or discontinued currencies.

Currency liquidity: Common currencies (EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, MXN) offer better rates than rare currencies because exchanges can easily resell them. Discontinued currencies or small-country currencies face wider spreads due to limited resale markets.

Transaction size: Larger exchanges sometimes receive better rates—the percentage spread decreases as volume increases. Ask about volume discounts if exchanging over $5,000.

Condition and format: Clean, undamaged paper currency receives the best rates. Coins are heavily discounted (15-20% below note rates) due to handling costs. Damaged or suspicious notes may be rejected entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell foreign coins in San Francisco?

Yes, but with significant limitations. Currency Exchange International accepts only 1 & 2 euro coins, 1 & 2 Canadian dollar coins, 1 & 2 British pound coins, and 10 & 20 Mexican peso coins. These must be pre-sorted by denomination. Rates for coins are 15-20% lower than paper currency. No other foreign coins are accepted for exchange. If you have numismatic coins with collector value, consult a coin dealer instead.

Will banks exchange foreign currency for non-customers?

Most major banks in San Francisco, CA no longer offer foreign currency exchange services to non-customers as of 2026. Even account holders face limited options, with many banks only handling major currencies like EUR, GBP, and CAD, and refusing all coins. Banks also charge higher spreads (8-15%) compared to specialized currency exchanges like CXI. For selling old international currency, dedicated currency exchange outlets offer better service and rates.

How much foreign currency can I exchange without reporting?

U.S. financial institutions must report currency transactions over $10,000 via Currency Transaction Reports (CTRs) filed with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This applies whether you’re exchanging foreign currency for USD or vice versa. The reporting is automatic and routine—it doesn’t imply wrongdoing. Deliberately structuring transactions to avoid the $10,000 threshold (called “structuring”) is illegal. For estate-related currency exchanges, consult a tax advisor regarding potential reporting requirements.

What if my foreign currency is torn or damaged?

Most currency exchanges will not accept heavily damaged notes. Minor wear is acceptable, but tears, missing pieces, excessive soiling, or water damage typically result in rejection. Some foreign central banks redeem their own damaged currency if more than 50% of the note remains intact—contact the issuing country’s central bank or consulate. For valuable old notes with numismatic significance despite damage, collectors may still pay premiums if the note is historically important.

Can I exchange very old or discontinued foreign currency?

It depends on the specific currency and how long it’s been out of circulation. Currency Exchange International accepts many discontinued currencies, including legacy European notes (French francs, German marks, etc.) if they still have exchange liquidity through central banks or dealers. However, currencies discontinued decades ago may no longer be exchangeable. Call ahead with specific details about your currency. For historically significant old notes, consider collectors or specialized dealers who may pay premiums beyond face value.

Conclusion: Getting Fair Value for Your Foreign Currency

Selling old international currency in San Francisco, CA is straightforward when you know where to go and how to prepare. Currency Exchange International at San Francisco Centre offers the most comprehensive service for Bay Area residents, accepting 80+ currencies including discontinued notes and limited coin denominations. By avoiding airport kiosks, pre-sorting coins, researching current rates, and preparing your currency properly, you maximize the USD value received.

Remember that currency exchanges serve everyday foreign money—if you suspect your coins or notes have numismatic value due to age, rarity, or precious metal content, seek professional evaluation before exchanging them at face value. What seems like ordinary foreign change could be worth significantly more to collectors and dealers.

Whether you’re clearing out a travel drawer, settling an estate, or simply converting leftover vacation money, San Francisco’s currency exchange services make it easy to turn those foreign bills and coins back into usable U.S. dollars. Take the short BART ride to Powell Station, walk to 833 Mission St, and convert that old international currency into cash you can spend today.

Sources and References

• Currency Exchange International (CXI) – San Francisco Branch Information
• Federal Reserve Foreign Exchange Rates
• San Francisco Financial History – Banking and Trade Development
• Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Currency Transaction Reporting Requirements

Financial Disclaimer: Currency exchange rates fluctuate constantly based on global forex markets. Rates and policies mentioned in this article are current as of January 13, 2026, but may change. Always verify current rates and acceptance policies with exchange providers before initiating transactions. This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult appropriate professionals for specific tax, legal, or financial guidance regarding currency exchanges.