Any advice for someone whos going to there first coin show?
kamehameha00
Posts: 2,077
On my birthday,March 21,I may go to the Tazewell Numismatic Society 6th Spring Coin Show.There is expected to be 60+ tables.Does anyone have any advice?
Thanks,
kamehameha00
Thanks,
kamehameha00
0
Comments
Take a list of things for which you are looking. Limit yourself to only a couple of series.
Talk to different dealers.
Don't be intimidated by the dealers near the door that ask repeatedly if you have anything to sell and then say that the stuff you have is low quality for the grade.
Look at many, many coins. Don't be afraid to ask deakers to look at things even if you really aren't interested in buying, this time.
Enjoy yourself.
Know how much you are willing to spend for the day (total) in advance. Know what you desire to buy. Do not buy anything that you aren't positive that you know what you are buying.
On second thought, don't take any money with you. Use the first show to see what's out there and what shows are like. Talk to as many people as you can who are collecting/dealing in your chosen sets. Meet people and make friends/contacts. (Take a small notebook and take notes.)
HAVE FUN!!!
Matt
My Coin Website
My Professional Website
But I did go through the a currency & coins exhibit at the Del Mar Fair a few years ago when the had it... they had lots of examples of coins and currency... they even handed out neat old foriegn coins to all the little ones...
Assuming that you don't take my advice about not buying anything, becareful not to blow your savings in the first hour. Stay focused and don't get destracted by all the other types of coins that you'll see. If you think you've found the perfect coin, you'll most likely find an even better one 10 minutes later.
If you decide not to spend money at your first show, take the time to look at as many different coins as you can and ask questions when the opportunity arises.
Watch how collectors and dealers handle each other.
Don't take it personally if you come across a rude dealer. Every show has it's share.
The second one I took my wish list and
made the rounds, checking any dealer that
had my coin. Then I went back to the one with
the best price.
I also took plenty of cash ( most don't take checks
or credit cards ).
Even if you don't find what you're looking for
it will be worth the trip just for the education.
Good luck !
Have fun !
.
My 1866 Philly Mint Set
Russ, NCNE
Look through the bargain stuff, dealers usually bring some low priced items for those with limited budgets.
Do not hesitate to stretch a bit if you are 110% sure you love it.
If you see something that you think you can buy and resell at the show for a profit, give it a whirl. Selling coins is the best numismatic education money can buy. Do NOT take the coin home if you can't sell it for a profit. Don't let it bother you if you have to lose a few bucks.
Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
Don't be in a rush to purchase many coins at your first show, and if you do, purchase inexpensive slabbed certified coins for your initial training.
Stuart
Collect 18th & 19th Century US Type Coins, Silver Dollars, $20 Gold Double Eagles and World Crowns & Talers with High Eye Appeal
"Luck is what happens when Preparation meets Opportunity"