So I found out there is a small coin show once a month in my city. I’ve hesitated going because I’m not really there to buy or sell, I’m there to learn. But not sure WHAT. I do know not to take up people’s time when there is a lot going on at their table. But I do want to observe what’s going on. I’ve heard everything from “coin dealers are mean if you’re not buying” to “be careful they will take advantage of your lack of knowledge.” I have some questions about some of my father and father in laws coins, but I don’t want to sell them I want to know about them. Is it not okay to ask? I guess what I’m asking is, what questions do I ask? I don’t wanna look stupid but when it comes to coins I am. I want to learn but WHAT? What is your advise for this first experience? I’m nervous and excited at the same time. And by the way, it’s TOMORROW.
Just use your eyes and ears. You should be able to get a general understanding of grades and what they mean. Just look at coins that you are somewhat familiar with, be it US pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, etc or some foreign country if that's what your father's coins are. You can learn alot just by listening when others ask questions. Just look around and have a good tme and attend a seminar or info session if they offer them.
Mimi.... I have never ran into anyone at a show that wasn't pleased to help me. I have heard the same things here about unscrupulous dealers and such. But I have never experienced that.... Just use standard rules of etiquette. If a dealer is striking a potential deal, don't interrupt him. If he is alone and dusting his cases, absolutely ask him if he would mind entertaining your questions. And yes, sometimes folks have a bad day. We all do. But don't let that dissuade you. If you bump into a dealer that isn't helpful, thank him and move along... If a person asked me how to grow a flower, I would show no interest. If someone asks me about a coin, I would light up and talk them to death.... Dealers are no different. Most want to share their knowledge. Heck, they are proud of it.
The stupidest question is the one that's never asked........don't be afraid to ask questions. Observe and listen and you will do just fine. Above all, enjoy your day out. It has been quite a spell since I've attended a show.....I both envy and congratulate you for going.
Go to the show tomorrow. Don’t take any of your Father’s or your Father-In-Laws coins. You want to learn, you don’t want to take up their time and you don’t want to be taken advantage of. This first trip will help you learn and give you a good idea of what to expect. If they have a coin show once a month you can see how the sellers act. The way they act with others is the same way they will act with you. Listen to questions and answers from others. Show an interest but look more while your listening. If you have any questions, ask the dealer. Direct questions are for more skilled collectors. General questions are for learners. Go back again the following months. I suspect a lot of the dealers will be the same people. Best wishes and enjoy your time at the show.
Generally, there is a pulse at the start, and sometimes traffic picks up the last couple hours. In the middle it can be fairly slow, and dealers will have more time. Ask "Do you mind if I ask you a few questions about ...whatever they have in their case..." If somebody shows up wanting to transact business, thank the dealer and gracefully fade away. Or sit to listen. I've posted this before, but years ago I was looking at probably the 3rd cheapest item in a dealer's case when he saw a known customer. He called the customer over, fished something out of his pocket, and handed it over - "You need to see this". The (real) customer looked it over, fished out a loupe, and handed it back saying "Very nice, but not for me". The dealer takes it back, and hands it towards me saying "Do you want to look?" I'm there for education, so I say sure. And I'm looking at an MS68* Morgan, one of the nicest coins I've ever seen. The customer says, by the way, what do you want for it? The dealer says "90". I very carefully handed it back and went back to looking at my $90 coin.
I remember my first show like it was August 2019, which of course was when it was. I walked around multiple times, scoped out who was selling what and for how much. Spoke to several dealers when they weren't busy. Bought 10 peace dollars for $15 each. They were not high grade. I bought 50 walking halves for $6.60 each, again not high grade. Finally bought two ASE for $18.50 each. My aunt had given me the coins she got when she divorced her husband. Lots of international stuff. Mostly international. Not many people around these parts deal in international, or know much about it either. But I was able to ask lots of questions, and got a range of answers. The best information was, "Buy the book before you buy the coin". If you have coins from your father and FIL, there might be some information at the local shows, but you will probably get much more information here, and other online resources. I like IKE so I like the ikegroup which is ikegroup.info There are apps for your phone to identify coins. I find the hobby to be very relaxing. FInally, come back and tell us about your experiences, I'm sure many would love to hear about it.
By all means if you have children ( who probably will inherit your collection some day) take them , let them listen to you discussing the coins, and if possible let them pick out one as "theirs". Over time you may regret it in midlife, but as you hit the higher years, you will be so glad that they will have great care of your collection when you no longer can. Take them to coin meetings, shows, auctions even. It gives you great relief when you start to see the end getting closer. My son (40) is now running the county's only coin club and he drives me nuts by explaining so much when running the member auction at each meeting, especially the foreign coins. But its my happy nut time. My collection is safe! Jim
Y’all it was ahhhhmazing!!! I know I had the “deer in the headlights” look, but I couldn’t help it. They were all sooooo nice and helpful! I don’t really have anything of value, but a dealer found a variety I didn’t know to look for. An 1882 O over S Morgan dollar! (I took a few of those in my purse with me). Not worth a lot, but exciting to me. Can’t wait to go back.
Congratulations on attending your first coin show. Glad to hear it went well snd you had a positive experience. Nice find for the Morgan O/S mint mark. Your photo shows it clearly.
Rude or even mean dealers are a reality, unfortunately, but by no means in the majority. There are more who are friendly and willing to help. Just be respectful of their time and don’t get in the way when they’re transacting business with paying customers. If any is generous with their time, consider making an inexpensive “courtesy purchase” just for fun, and that will make you a paying customer. PS- I just scrolled down far enough to read your update. Awesome! I’m glad it was a nice experience.
If you city has a monthly show, there is a good chance it also has a coin club which is very good place for asking questions. You will be dealing with collectors who are typically eager to pass on information, and they are not pressured with the problems of having to conduct business.
