From what I've read it costs around $150 and you get 2hrs before the doors open to the masses on the first day.
Yes, although fewer minutes early. I do wonder how many dealers are looking to transact business at 8am...
I've never seen behind the curtain, but I imagine that most of their deals happen early on when we're not in their way. If you're loaded with money, it's probably worth it so you don't have to fight others over the nice coins you want. Me, I just wait for general public on things like this.
I attended a coin show not too long ago and made the mistake of paying $20 for early bird instead of the normal $2 admission. It was a complete waste of my money as not one dealer was ready. Of course that is just one example.
Personally to me I rather keep my 150 and walk the show and search at my pace. For 150 I can think of quite a few nice coins that could be purchased . Besides I've worked shows that during the early bird time period the room was filled with wholesalers wanting to sell. So that said the dealers are more tuned to buying then selling .
