Coin Show Do's and Don'ts, help a Newbie out!

N8 · April 17, 2007 7:05AM

Next week I will be attending my very first coin show, "The Texas Coin Show at Grapevine" which is a larger show from what I've read. I do have some questions concerning what to bring and what not to bring, plus a couple of random wonderings. If you know any answers to these questions please take a minute to help a rookie out:

1) Is it ok to bring your own coins to a show? -Say, to easily compare prospects to coins that need upgrading. Plus I have heard that sometimes you can get coins graded (not sure to what extent) at shows. Mine are in a 3-ring binder right now.

2) What types of funding do booths usually accept? -Will plastic get me what coins and supplies I want or do I need to bring plenty of cash?

3) Will there be other types of numismatic materials there other than coins and currency? -Such as literature, albums, and other usefull supplies?

4) Are big sunglasses and a wig usually enough cover to get me in the front door without any one that I know seeing me?

Any other helpful advice or things to expect/watch out for would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help.

ricko · April 17, 2007 7:10AM

1 - Yes
2 - Bring both.
3 - Yes
4 - No disguise is enough to conceal a nerd.

Cheers, RickO

speety · April 17, 2007 7:10AM

What show are you planning to attend, if that is given we'll be able to help you out more. But generally speaking:

1. Yes, but don't make it blatently obvious you are carrying coins around, especially outside of the show!

2. Most dealers i've dealt with will take cash or check, the later depending on the size of the deal.

3. Most larger shows will have one or two literature dealers and almost everyshow has albums and other supplies.

4. I don't have friends so i wouldn't know

Enjoy your first show, i'm sure you'll have a blast!

Mark

commoncents05 · April 17, 2007 7:10AM

1) Absolutely! I even take coins to sell to get some funds.

2) At a bigger show, some dealers might take plastic, but at the smaller shows (what I go to) cash is the only way to go. If the dealer knows you, they might take a check from you.

3) At the shows I have went to, there have always been at least one dealer with books and supplies.

4) Probably.

I always carry a briefcase when I go to shows. A list of my inventory, a want list, Greysheets, Counterfeit Detection Book(s), a good loupe, and paper and pencils all inside. If you take a bag or something along, when you set it down, put it between your legs. It's a lot harder for someone to walk out with it without you knowing that way.

-Paul

Newcomp103 · April 17, 2007 7:16AM

Some people take rubber chickens to coin shows also...but I don't think it is mandatory!!!

Just have fun....any specific coins you will be seeking????

storm888 · April 17, 2007 7:16AM

If you take your coins with you, keep an eye on them
and don't set the albums down anywhere. Backpacks
- small ones - work well.

You might want to take a loupe.

Cash is always good. Credit/Debit cards are often good.

Be polite and humble; most dealers respond well to that.

kranky · April 17, 2007 7:28AM

Take a small notepad and pen also. It's handy for jotting down the table number when you see something of interest and aren't ready to make a decision, so you can find it later. Don't rely on your memory. While there's no guarantee the coin you are interested in will still be there if you come back later, I would recommend not buying the first thing you see either. Since it's your first show, walk around first and see what's out there before getting down to business.

Comfortable shoes are a must.

If they have coin grading, it won't be instant. For the services which slab coins, you'd have to drop your coins off and have them mailed back later. If you want the fastest service (called 'walkthrough') it will cost a fortune.

Remember that dealers are generally courteous, but they are there to do business. Be sensitive to how much of a dealer's time you are taking up if you are just chatting. And there are some dealers who are just not very friendly. If you get a cold shoulder, don't take it personally - the dealer probably acts that way to everyone.

Have fun!

N8 · April 17, 2007 7:32AM

ricko - thanks, I really didn't think there was any hope at disguising myself but wanted to throw that out there. I have yet to decide if I want to tell my friends the truth about where I'll be or just make up some fake story.

speety - it is the Texas Coin Show at Grapevine just north of Dallas. I added that to the body. I am sure that I will not be 'breaking the bank' on any purchases so I might get away with using checks according to what you said, thanks!

commoncents - wow I would have totally forgotten about bringing a loupe if you didn't mention that... thanks.

Newcomp - they better not be mandatory... I don't have one. Oh and I am totally missing the inside joke from that

storm - thanks for the advice on bringing a backpack, that will be perfect. Anything that I have to constantly hold on to and think about probably wouldn't make it out of my car... And yes, I will be sure to mind my manners and treat those around me as I myself want to be treated. Lord knows I don't want to tick anyone off and have dentures or R2D2 figures thrown at me!!

N8 · April 17, 2007 7:41AM

<<I would recommend not buying the first thing you see either. Since it's your first show, walk around first and see what's out there before getting down to business. >>

Thanks kranky, that is some great advice. I will try to pace myself as best I can.

I have another question: Would it be ok to bring a digital camera to snap a picture here and there of non-unique, raw coins to help with comparing one potential purchase to another that may be accross the building? Or should I just rely on hand written notes and hope that I haven't looked at too many hundreds of other coins before trying to choose between just a few.

SkyMan · April 17, 2007 8:29AM

<< I have another question: Would it be ok to bring a digital camera to snap a picture here and there of non-unique, raw coins to help with comparing one potential purchase to another that may be accross the building? Or should I just rely on hand written notes and hope that I haven't looked at too many hundreds of other coins before trying to choose between just a few. >>

Most dealers would allow images, but given the lighting of most halls, the relatively fine details you'll be attempting to capture, and whatever sort of time constraints you're looking at, that probably isn't the best thing to do. Also, don't forget, the camera is one more thing to misplace/watch out for.

N8 · April 17, 2007 8:35AM

Very good points, I will just leave it at home on the tripod and trust my memory instead

carl · April 17, 2007 8:54AM

If that coin show is as crowded as the ones I go to PLEASE don't wear a back pack. Crowded aisles are no place for a stupid back pack. I've been bumped by just to many of those things at coin shows. Usually don't see many there. Would pay to have some kind of over the shoulder bag of some type though. Some dealers at some coin shows do take checks, money orders, cashier checks, credit cards, however many don't unless they know you. I've seen people try to purchase a coin for $5 with a credit card. Didn't work. Some coin shows have free magazines at the front desk. One of the ones I go to has had Coin World, Numismatic News and several others and all free. I know a dealer at the flea markets that loads up on the free ones and sells them at the flea markets.
Make a list of what you want, what you need, what you absolutely do not want. Find prices on the net, Red Book, etc and average them out and never pay what a dealer is asking. If the dealer will not go down in price, be nice, say thanks and walk away. Most prices are inflated because everyone chews them down anyway so if you don't, you probably paid to much.
Not sure of the area you are going to but around here I always check to see that no car is following me when I leave a coin show.

Bruceswar · April 17, 2007 8:59AM

Hey N8, Where in Dallas are you? I am from Mesquite. We need to hook up some time. Sounds like we could share some stories. I love to talk coins. To Answer your questions specifically about the Grapevine show.

About 60 dealers, Cash is a must, Supplies and books will be sold. This show could still be considered small. Bring some coins if you like. Works well

Enjoy yourself and have fun! PM me and maybe we can set up a date and place to meet somewhere.

StampAlarm · April 17, 2007 9:08AM

What's everyone think of taking U.S. Postal M.O. s ? Say like 10 $100 m.o. s. I remember a thread where that was asked and a couple dealers said yes.

Jerry

Bruceswar · April 17, 2007 9:10AM

You are risking it by taking money orders. Some dealers will not take them.

Flyfishguy · April 17, 2007 9:11AM

I'll be at the show on Friday. Look for a guy wearing Levi's, Hawaiian Shirt, Birkenstock sandals with white socks. (but then again, I wear this outfit EVERY day....

And if that is not enough to find me, my loupe around my neck is on a red & yellow cord.

I'm not at a table, I'm walking around.

Let's make this a contest, first 3 that spot me get a Proof coin.

mrpotatoheadd · April 17, 2007 9:17AM

<< If that coin show is as crowded as the ones I go to PLEASE don't wear a back pack. Crowded aisles are no place for a stupid back pack. I've been bumped by just to many of those things at coin shows. Usually don't see many there. Would pay to have some kind of over the shoulder bag of some type though. >>

Try looking at laptop computer bags...

JeremyDie1 · April 17, 2007 9:23AM

Have fun. Try not to buy right out of the gate. Take your time and visit all the tables. Talk to some of the dealers and tell them that you are kind of new. Most dealers will then hopefully try to help you out the best they can. Ive found making conversation with dealers and being polite is a good start.

WillieBoyd2 · April 17, 2007 10:00AM

Some dealers give discounts for cash.

roadrunner · April 17, 2007 10:02AM

First show?

Then I'd leave the coins home. Plan to go to learn and observe.
Hold back on buying anything. History shows that most of the earlier purchases by newbies, esp if raw, tend to be burials. There is no obligation to buy.

If I could go back to my early years, I wouldn't buy a coin for at least 1-2 years. Most of those early newps were losers and just stuff I thought I was interested in....or appeared to be a good deal.
Find what really makes you tick, specialize, and then start to make purchases.

roadrunner

N8 · April 17, 2007 10:42AM

The laptop bag looks like the way to go, and I have some laying around. Also it appears that cash is best - the trick will be concealing it well and not spending it all

. I will be sure to take it slow and mingle at first, I'm the type of person who can fun without spending money so it should be an enjoyable experience.

Yes this will be my first show, but I have made quite a few purchases off the bay (some good, some bad). I have definitely decided to focus on WLH's and have learned a great deal from this forum about them and what to look for. You make a good point roadrunner, I think I will leave the coins at home and just bring a want list along.

Thanks everyone for the advice, I'm sure other show-virgins out there like me enjoy picking up these good tips!

droopyd · April 17, 2007 2:42PM

I always bring my coin album with me to see if what I'm looking at is really an upgrade or not. (But I don't bring multiple albums, slab boxes, etc.)

A regular magnifier as well as a high-powered loupe is a good idea.

And I always bring cash -- just the amount I have budgeted to spend. (But I do keep a credit card handy "just in case"!)

Darkmane · April 17, 2007 2:47PM

<< First show?

Then I'd leave the coins home. Plan to go to learn and observe.
Hold back on buying anything. History shows that most of the earlier purchases by newbies, esp if raw, tend to be burials. There is no obligation to buy.

If I could go back to my early years, I wouldn't buy a coin for at least 1-2 years. Most of those early newps were losers and just stuff I thought I was interested in....or appeared to be a good deal.
Find what really makes you tick, specialize, and then start to make purchases.

roadrunner >>

I find that, while expensive, making mistakes speeds up the learning process.... very quickly.

Edit: even though I'm not well enough informed, I've made some good buys and would at least break even if I sold everything... and this is a HOBBY for me. A small monetary loss here or there is definitely worth the enjoyment.

PrivateCoinCollector · April 17, 2007 2:50PM

<< Next week I will be attending my very first coin show, "The Texas Coin Show at Grapevine" which is a larger show from what I've read. I do have some questions concerning what to bring and what not to bring, plus a couple of random wonderings. If you know any answers to these questions please take a minute to help a rookie out:

1) Is it ok to bring your own coins to a show? -Say, to easily compare prospects to coins that need upgrading. Plus I have heard that sometimes you can get coins graded (not sure to what extent) at shows. Mine are in a 3-ring binder right now.

2) What types of funding do booths usually accept? -Will plastic get me what coins and supplies I want or do I need to bring plenty of cash?

3) Will there be other types of numismatic materials there other than coins and currency? -Such as literature, albums, and other usefull supplies?

4) Are big sunglasses and a wig usually enough cover to get me in the front door without any one that I know seeing me?

Any other helpful advice or things to expect/watch out for would also be greatly appreciated.
>>

1. Of course!
2. They prefer cash. Always take cash. Cash has an adversity to sales tax.
3. Never fail's to impress the myriad of things that comes with the coin traders. A little bit of everything will be there. Just hope no one is trying to sell old office machines (yes I have seen it)
4. No, get out of the closet. Feel the sunshine on your forehead. Stand up and be counted. Be happy and exclaim "it is a good to be a coin nerd" (a least you are NEVER broke.)

Try and trade. I usually take all my dups with me, the stuff I have graded but do not want. I then look for people who sell what I have and try and trade up or fill holes. Always works pretty well. I walk in with a pocket full of money and some coins, and I tend to leave with more money in my pocket plus a few new honeys to gawk at!

It is all good. Take you time, look, look and look. Don't waste anyones time, but if you are going to buy something - Work it!

airplanenut · April 17, 2007 3:20PM

If you take coins of your own, make sure they don't get mixed with a dealer's inventory, and let him know you're comparing them. The last thing you want is an accusation that you're stealing your own coins.

N8 · April 17, 2007 4:08PM

I had no idea that you could trade or even sell your own coins. I guess these shows are really just a 'gathering' of dealers from around the area looking to do business as normal? (just more of it) I have a seperate collection of dups, I think I will take them along to see if I get any good deals. I have a few rolls of junk silver but I think those will do better on the bay.

I will be sure that I don't get my stuff mixed up with a dealers, that would not be fun... thanks for the warning!

I have one more question:

5) What do you think the ratio of graded to raw coins will be? -Right now I prefer raw coins (they fit my current budget

). Can I expect to see a decent showing of raw - lets say - walking liberty half or mercury dime type coins?

Bruceswar · April 17, 2007 7:13PM

At a show of this size... Expect to see many more raw coins than graded. Buy, sell, and trade at coin shows.

SilverEagles92 · April 17, 2007 8:39PM

1)Bring all you want!

2) CASH. I learned this the hard way. Bring CASH, or sometimes a check.

3) Usually there will be

4) Usually, but now that you've mentioned it, they'll just look for the guy in sunglasses and a wig

5) Raw coins will be everywhere, but then again, so will slabs. It could be 60/40 in favor of the raw coins

walkerminus1 · April 17, 2007 10:29PM

<< ricko - thanks, I really didn't think there was any hope at disguising myself but wanted to throw that out there. I have yet to decide if I want to tell my friends the truth about where I'll be or just make up some fake story.
>>

I once saw the preacher of my church at a strip club...not sure who had the most explaining to do.

Rob

I believe if they see you there, then they had to be there to begin with.

jmj3esq · April 17, 2007 10:48PM

Most bigger dealers accept plastic, but I have seen one or two get a little grumpy when you pay with plastic. Most who accept credit cards pay 3% of teh urchase price to their carrier.

N8 · April 18, 2007 1:18AM

<<I believe if they see you there, then they had to be there to begin with. >>

You're right, and I'm not really expecting to see anyone I know there. Basically as of now I don't know what I will say when my friends plan something that I can't attend, which usually is paintball or golf. Maybe a near-by family member will need my help moving something...

walkerminus1 · April 18, 2007 1:25AM

<< You're right, and I'm not really expecting to see anyone I know there. Basically as of now I don't know what I will say when my friends plan something that I can't attend, which usually is paintball or golf. Maybe a near-by family member will need my help moving something...

>>

Tell them you're going to have to skip because of a coin show. And when they laugh, shoot them with your paintball gun.

Rob

I believe I like the old school play in the woods better than the newer speedball.

N8 · April 18, 2007 2:06AM

<<I believe I like the old school play in the woods better than the newer speedball. >>

Speedball is just running from point A to point B while wasting a ton of paint. We have actually been able to play at a nearby spread of "open" land for free. Plenty of trees and growth with a small creek running right through the middle... its perfect (so long as a cop doesn't get wise to the whole opperation). I actually played paintball in the snow two weeks ago - in Texas - never thought that would happen in April!

Newcomp103 · April 18, 2007 5:43AM

<< Newcomp - they better not be mandatory... I don't have one. Oh and I am totally missing the inside joke from that

>>

Just search the word "Chicken" and you will learn!

walkerminus1 · April 18, 2007 5:57AM

<< so long as a cop doesn't get wise to the whole opperation >>

Is this inside city limits or something?

NowhereMan · April 18, 2007 6:10AM

Hey! I always go to Grapevine -- fun little show. You might also check out the Arlington show THIS weekend.

At Grapevine there is always a "supply guy" setup on the end with anything you need.

What are your collecting interests? Anything in Particular?

Have fun!

Rex

lathmach · April 18, 2007 8:47AM

I'll give you some good advice N8. Do with it what you choose.
Dick Osburn will be setup at this show. He's a dealer that specializes in Bust and Seated coins.
Wait til he's not busy and talk coins with him. Pick him for all the knowledge you can, but don't interfere with any potential sales.
You'll probably come away from his table a dedicated Bust or Seated coin collector. This is the area of nusimatics that has the most potential right now.

Ray

Cgb · April 18, 2007 9:00AM

Why would you want to hide your identity at a show? If you see someone you recognize, they wont rag on you. You can be coin nerds together

Coxe · April 18, 2007 6:31PM

<< 1) Is it ok to bring your own coins to a show? -Say, to easily compare prospects to coins that need upgrading. Plus I have heard that sometimes you can get coins graded (not sure to what extent) at shows. Mine are in a 3-ring binder right now. >>

I would suggest knowing your coins very well before you go. An upgrade should be a clear upgrade and not something borderline with what you already have, right? A big show will have plenty of examples like;y of the coins you would be upgrading. Keeping the offered ones all straight will be overwhelming itself. I'd leave the coins at home unless you are selling.

<< 2) What types of funding do booths usually accept? -Will plastic get me what coins and supplies I want or do I need to bring plenty of cash? >>

Cash is number ones. Some might accept personal checks. The few who will take plastic probably will charge sales tax if that is an issue at that location and something they normally "overlook".

<< 3) Will there be other types of numismatic materials there other than coins and currency? -Such as literature, albums, and other usefull supplies? >>

All the big shows have the supply and literature guys there too. Usually, they are tucked in the back by the folks with tables that don't realize it is a coin show, not a poker chip show or a celebrity photos and autographs show. Prices are often very good and it's a good opportunity to stock up on supplies and get the latest reference books for decnet prices and not have to wait for a delivery form Amazon or elsewhere.

<< 4) Are big sunglasses and a wig usually enough cover to get me in the front door without any one that I know seeing me? >>

Tough to view coins even on a well-lit bourse with sunglasses. A wig is fine, as long as it isnt a Walter Breen wig. Leave the rubber chicken at home. BTW, what people whom you know are you avoiding? Revenuers, parole officers, pimps, ....?

<< Any other helpful advice or things to expect/watch out for would also be greatly appreciated. >>

Wear comfortable shoes. Don't bring a lot of books. A greysheet (and you can often even buy the latest at some shows if CDN sets up), and some notes often is all one needs. Definitely do not set up shop at a dealer's table, covering his cases with your stuff. I hate when people do that. Have your own loupe and/or magnifying glass. Look at a number of tables before buying. Too many new folks burn out their cash not many steps inside and before they really know what is being offered on the bourse.

Good luck and have fun!

N8 · April 19, 2007 4:06AM

The sunglasses and wig would only be used to get me from my car and into the building. The reason I am joking about using a disguise is that I am 24 and none of my friends are into collecting coins, or anything for that matter! All they know is that I have a collection, I would never hear the end of it if they knew more...

I think I will bring along some random coins for trading that I have put aside to auction off, a couple keys and some XF older stuff.

My interest right now is a short set of BU walkers that I just started. I think I am in the phase where I want to collect coins that I enjoy looking at (and are affordable). I am also on the look out for some hole fillers in a few sets.

Thanks to everyone who posted! This is some great information for all those out there who want to know how to prepare for a show and what they can expect. The main thing is that a show is a chance to take off the wigs and hang out with some fellow numismatics!

Burks · April 19, 2007 4:46AM

I never leave home without:

Pen & Paper - Useful for making notes on coins, locations, prices, etc. Go to a big show without it and you'll be confused as heck later. (I was!)
Loupe - Most dealers will let you use theirs if you ask politely. At the MSNS show I had to borrow a loupe a couple times because I lost mine the week before. All the dealers were more than willingly to let me use theirs.
Checklist - I hate buying the same coin year, mint, and grade. Just annoys me. I have a hard time keeping track of what I have and don't have.
Price guide/list - Not everyone needs one, but I do. I like to just get a ballpark figure for what a coin "might" be worth. Then I base my final price on the ballpark figure and how much I like the given coin.

The most important thing is to have fun. When I went to my first show I was nervous as hell. Being 19 at the time I was surrounded by people old enough to be my grandparents, it took some time to get over that for me. Each person has a little "thing" with coin shows they don't like. For me it's being younger, my dad it's the insane prices and tons of changing information, and my girlfriend it's all the "nerds".

Also try not to stay focused on one coin or anything like that. You'll only be looking for that and let other coins just pass right on by. I did that before and came home empty handed and angry at myself.

Coin Show Do's and Don'ts, help a Newbie out!

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