Hi all, I'm going to my first coin show in about 10 years this Saturday. Last one was in Las Vegas in the late '90s. Besides bringing a 10X and 20X loupe and a current pricelist of coins I'm interested in what else would you folks suggest I'll need, besides cash of course? I'd also like some advice on dealing with the dealers there, what are some of the ways you guys can spot an honest dealer from a dishonest one. I pretty much can tell myself just by talking to someone, looking at their merchandise and pricing if they're on the up and up or not, but any advice is appreciated. Hopefully this post will help others also on what to look for and look out for when going to a show. Thank you.
Basically, I avoid any dealer like the plague who isn't friendly or who refuses to ask me if I need anything or would like to look at anything (unless they're busy, of course). No need to give money to grumpy dealers who act like they don't want to deal with you. Half-off bins are generally full of over-priced coins that equal out to what you would normally pay when the price is cut in half...I obviously avoid those (usually they are U.S. coin bins). However, world coin bargain bins are great to rummage through, and some great deals can be found there if you collect world at all. I always try to bargain, doesn't hurt to try. If I find two coins I like that are $17.50 total, I ask if they'll do both for $16. They almost always take an offer like that, and the smart dealers always give you a discount anyway to keep you coming back (no harm there!). Make sure you bring a comfortable bag to hold your coins, money, any numismatic material you pick up, etc. I used to bring my bike messenger bag, but now I've started bringing my computer bag. I try to dress a little nicely. Helps dealers feel more comfortable around you, generally.
Bring comfortable shoes, and cool clothes. I went to a small show over the weekend and about roasted. If by chance the prices are marked be sure and ask what they will take. from my experience, most dealers always have their marked prices high and always take less.
True. But one must know legitimate fair market value, which is both art and science. Never assume "oh, they're always 20% high... I got 20% off, so I'm good". They might be 50% high. Base your offer on an educated estimate of FMV. That requires grading skills whether they're slabbed or not, but particularly for raw.
i'll be at the Baltimore Show behind a table on Thursday and Friday and possibly walking the floor with my son on Saturday. Table 1000 if you want to say hello. -Steve
I would recommend you use a 6X or 7X for general usage. 10X is more magnification than you need unless you are looking for RPDs, RPMs, overdates, varieties, etc.
Very true, you want to know what you should spend on a particular coin. I never have a grey sheet so I keep my search pretty narrow so I know what I'm looking for. Unfortunately my son always wants something I have no idea what it's worth (like the five cent fractional he bought last weekend). In that case I try and feel out the seller on coins that I know what the vaue is first.
Best of luck at the show! Let us know what you buy! My advice would be: 1. Be courteous and respectful 2. Don't be afraid to smile 3. Know what you are looking for/at 4. Don't feel pressured to buy something 5. Pay what you are willing to pay, and comfortable paying Best of luck man. :thumb: Phoenix
I'm flying in for the Baltimore show on Friday and will be there all day. I'll stop by and see if I can find anything to buy.
