I was at the ANA Worlds Fair of Money show in Chicago (Rosemont) on Tuesday, August 11. The show was an excellent production and was numismatic heaven overall - I wish I could have been there another day to hear some of the presentations but my family was getting a little burned out. Some highlights: 1. Activities for kids were great. The ANA people were wonderful accommodating the future collectors. Included was a treasure hunt and passport search. 2. However, I wish the sellers would be more accommodating to kids as they are vital to the future of the hobby. Several wanted nothing to do with interacting with kids, which is disappointing and in some cases kind of rude. I totally understand they need to sell and negotiate and make a living, but to blow them off completely is unacceptable. 3. Many, many smaller dealers with wonderful items reasonably priced for purchase. 4. Many, many high end dealers with wonderful items to drool at. It is amazing the number of Windex bottles you see at the show. 5. I met Charmy and Amanda at their booths and both were delightful. I appreciate their entertaining reports and blogs. The Penny Lady and Alhambra Coin were great and had some wonderful coins on display. 6. The food at the convention center sucked and was ridiculously priced. Rosemont needed to get their skim. The filet slider burgers at Gibson's across the street were incredible. 7. The show is overwhelming and you need to pace yourself. There is so much stuff to see and many many opportunities to buy nice coins for your collection. 8. The ANA display was limited compared to other years. 9. The world passport was limited - only 7 stations this year. That's disappointing. The Austria booth has wonderful stuff.
