Visited this show today mainly for my girls (8, 6) to attend the YN program. The show is usually held twice a year in Spring and Fall. We got there right before 10:30am, which was the start time for the YN program. The program for the parts I was able to see while in the conference room was very well done. Though I spent most my time chasing my toddler around the room and bringing him in the hall when he decided to start yelling. The focus of the program was wheat cents, the history of the coins and finally how to grade them. This was followed by doing some actual grading work of coins they put in 2x2's and cataloged with date, mint, and mintage. My youngest girl Leela is apparently a prodigy grader as she managed to get everyone correct with no prior experience grading coins. The program ran until about noon and they did many drawings and questions with prizes for the YN's. There was only maybe 15 YN in attendance so the ones that were their got quite a haul to take home with them. After that we browsed the show while the girls bought some coins and were given many more by some of the friendly dealers whose tables we stopped at. When we returned home they began going through their stuff and organizing it. This special ANACS slab was also provided to each YN in attendance. I thought this was a very nice gesture as it provides a nice memento of their experience that's also easy to keep safe and identify where it was obtained from. Overall we had a very good time and it really reignited the interest my girls show for the hobby. They also provided a 'homework' project for the kids who will return to the Fall shows YN program. Each child was wanted to participate was provided an empty cent coin tube with a specific date/mm. Their assignment is to fill the roll by searching pocket change or cent rolls and they can turn it in for an award at the next shows program.
This show is in my backyard, and I almost always attend. Unfortunately, my FTJ demands too much of my time this year, so I had to pass. Ernie Botte ( www.ebwpromotions.com ) puts on this show, and does an excellent job. The venue is well-located in downtown Manchester, NH, is very secure, offers validated garage parking, and has surprisingly decent food at reasonable prices. The merchandise offered runs the gamut, from supplies to starter coins, and very collectible material to high end investment material. There are quite a number of prominent dealers who set up at this regional show, and with room to grow, it is expected that future shows will be even better. Needless to say, it was a very difficult decision for me to decline the table this year. I will undoubtedly return, so as to not miss out on this high quality New Hampshire show again.
Thanks for the write up, @Blissskr! I was wondering about the YN program because I'm trying to get one of my nephews into coin collecting. The way you described it, I think he might like it, especially if they give the kids things while they're there. I also like that they gave them "homework." Maybe I'll see if he wants to go this fall!
