How was the bourse at Long Beach?

291fifth · September 25, 2010 10:13PM

We've heard that the dealer count was down but that could have been a good thing for the dealers that did attend.

What was selling well and what was not?

RedTiger · September 26, 2010 4:01AM

I didn't go. I haven't seen any reports on the forum. At least a dozen forum members did say they were going, but I haven't seen their reports.

For the previous Long Beach show, my coin club president wrote a column for the club newsletter, bemoaning the low dealer count and low attendance. One dealer buddy of the club president said it would be his last Long Beach show because business was so slow, even while business is decent at other shows in Northern California and elsewhere.

blu62vette · September 26, 2010 4:05AM

Dealer count was down some citing Philly next weekend as a reason not to come west.

WTCG · September 26, 2010 4:11AM

Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego.

Baley · September 26, 2010 4:13AM

Hey give the OP credit. He has correctly predicted all nine of the last two bear markets in coins and metals.

coinguy1 · September 26, 2010 4:16AM

I'd describe it as quiet - not dead, and not with any type of buzz.

I actually had a much more difficult time buying, than I did selling, though my sales were to dealers.

Moldnut · September 26, 2010 4:34AM

Well, I was only there early Saturday morning so my view doesnt say much. Yes, lots of dealers were gone or never did show for this one but the ones that I talked to said it was a so-so show for them. I actually bought two coins, well two and a half coins. I bought an 1840-O drapery quarter and something I dont always buy, a Standing Liberty Quarter. And on the way home I bought an 1851-O Seated Quarter from an east coast collector. So I would say overall it was a good weekend for coins for me. I almost forgot, I did see BNB roaming around the floor doing his thing too.

PerryHall · September 26, 2010 4:42AM

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for.

pennyannie · September 26, 2010 4:58AM

While i did not go to the show, the coins i bid on and won from Heritage were not record prices by a long shot. I think the internet keeps the coin auctions going. If you took the internet buyers out the equation coins would be dead. Most of those buyers would not attend shows or use coin dealers to bid for them.

To the OP as far as i am concerned most of the times i just look at shows and buy cheaper elsewhere 90 percent of the time, and the 10 or 12 shows i have gone to this year if you took the bullions sales away they would be very slow. On my local level some of the local B&M's have cut back or stopped at this time even going to shows, but we seem to have a show once a month around here the last 2 years.

I really like going to shows, but some dealers really turn me off and they probably feel the same about me. The 2 national shows i went to this year were a real eye opener. I plan on going to The Money show in Houston and i can already give the the show report, here goes

This years Money show, opened with a bang, dealers raved about the BBQ and activity was brisk on Friday, some dealers were already pulling out friday evening as they already bought or sold what they intended to. Saturday opened to little fanfare and by 10 a.m. the next round of dealers were packing up. Those collectors that decide to come on saturday afternoon will find a ghost town.

truthteller · September 26, 2010 5:17AM

I arrived Thursday at 11AM and within 2 hours sold a great majority of what I had at or near my asking prices. My offers were reasonable for the nice quality I had, so they sold. It was very busy from 11AM to 2 PM, then slowed down. Many dealers were not asking the last dollar, so material moved. I did notice a few colored coin specialists asking too much money for nice coins, they sat and sat with little action. Many of those coins are now considered "museum pieces". Overall, Thursday was good for sales. The PCGS booth was not as busy as I would have assumed.

I returned Saturday to do my buying and was earlier than usual, 11AM. I was extremely disappointed with the numerous empty tables, normally manned until 3PM. The show gave the appearance of the old Sundays of yesteryears. Even local West Coast dealers had left early. I was told by one dealer that the show is dying, so why obey the rules? Rather sad indeed. I purchased much less than desired, yet I made a nice trade for a colored commem at the end of the day that made me happy.

Overall, I did well. I rate the show a C+

I may no longer attend on Saturdays again.

TRUTH

illini420 · September 26, 2010 5:46AM

For the past few years I usually get on these threads and whine about only being able to go to the show on Saturday and whining about having to pay full price to get into the show when I really only have a four or five hours to enjoy things before dealers pack it up early. This time around I was able to go Thursday as well, so I don't feel quite as cheated in that regard

But I went Saturday as well and agree it was much worse than prior years and would have been more upset than ever if that was my only day. I also don't like how the show advertises that there are 1000+ dealers. I didn't count them, but there are no way that many unless they count all of the collectors attending the show too as dealers (which some admittedly are) and then maybe add in the folks working for PCGS and then maybe the people selling hot dogs in the back.

I brought a few dreck coins to sell, but of the 12-15 dealers I offered to show stuff too, only 3 or 4 were even interested in looking at my stuff and only one of those ended up asking what my prices were on a few (and I sold a few to him). I just got the vibe that a lot of the dealers were guarding their cash more than ever so I really didn't try that hard to sell after awhile. This feeling that dealers weren't willing to buy much made me feel that many of them dealers were very motivated to selll which was good since I think that I got some great deals from some of these motivated sellers.

So, I got a few new purchases at nice prices, was able to go to Heritage lot viewing, saw the ESM copper set, dropped my 1909 Mint Set at PCGS for regrade/pedigree service and saw a lot of dealers I like and folks from the boards. so while the show itself can be beat up on for several reasons, I still had a great time and it's still about the best show there is in SoCal.

WTCG · September 26, 2010 5:48AM

<< 

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for. >>

Uncalled for? I disagree. If the OP (and you) want to maintain some credibility here then be prepared to ask valid, constructive and legitimate questions instead of sounding like a broken record day after day.

By the way PerryHall, how was Long Beach for you?

pennyannie · September 26, 2010 6:09AM

<< 

<< 

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for. >>

Uncalled for? I disagree. If the OP (and you) want to maintain some credibility here then be prepared to ask valid, constructive and legitimate questions instead of sounding like a broken record day after day.

By the way PerryHall, how was Long Beach for you? >>

I am amazed when dealers reply with responces like this, right or wrong it sends a bad vibe of character to me. The OP was not attacking you as far as i could see from his thread. Even trying to read between the lines i can not find anything. I read the OP as more positive than anything. Less dealers and better prices, more material moving. Other replies seem to mention the same to some degree.

PerryHall · September 26, 2010 6:09AM

<< 

<< 

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for. >>

Uncalled for? I disagree. If the OP (and you) want to maintain some credibility here then be prepared to ask valid, constructive and legitimate questions instead of sounding like a broken record day after day.

By the way PerryHall, how was Long Beach for you? >>

Since I live on the east coast I didn't attend but I would guess that you already knew this. How did you do at Long Beach?

WTCG · September 26, 2010 6:14AM

<< 

<< 

<< 

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for. >>

Uncalled for? I disagree. If the OP (and you) want to maintain some credibility here then be prepared to ask valid, constructive and legitimate questions instead of sounding like a broken record day after day.

By the way PerryHall, how was Long Beach for you? >>

Since I live on the east coast I didn't attend but I would guess that you already knew this. How did you do at Long Beach? >>

If you weren't there then why are you on this thread?

As for the question, the show turned out fine despite the bout of food poisoning I experienced on Wednesday.

Zoins · September 26, 2010 6:15AM

Thanks for starting this thread and to the posters with constructive posts. It's good to keep a pulse on the hobby.

PerryHall · September 26, 2010 6:24AM

<< 

<< 

<< 

<< 

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

The OP was just asking a question. If you don't want to answer it, just don't post. Your reponse was totally uncalled for. >>

Uncalled for? I disagree. If the OP (and you) want to maintain some credibility here then be prepared to ask valid, constructive and legitimate questions instead of sounding like a broken record day after day.

By the way PerryHall, how was Long Beach for you? >>

Since I live on the east coast I didn't attend but I would guess that you already knew this. How did you do at Long Beach? >>

If you weren't there then why are you on this thread?

As for the question, the show turned out fine despite the bout of food poisoning I experienced on Wednesday. >>

Sorry to hear about your illness. I hope you're feeling better. I'm interested in all show reports since it gives me a feeling as to the direction and health of the coin market and it gives me an indication as to what coin series are popular and what's not so popular. Nothing more---nothing less. I have no hidden agendas here.

BlindedByEgo · September 26, 2010 6:57AM

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego. >>

Gee, who blew up your skirt? It's a perfectly valid question, and one in which I am interested in reading about.

pursuitofliberty · September 26, 2010 7:27AM

Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego.

Excuse me for asking of WTCG, but who do you think you are? And what portion of your ego are you trying to feed from such attacks?

I thought the title, question and OP post was quite valid, and like many others here, I do try to keep up on the shows even if I rarely attend them.

The subsequent barb's at PerryHall were equally uncalled for IMO.

Just so you know, I don't know PerryHall or 291fifth.

As for you, I don't know you either. From what I can tell you're not much more than a vest pocket dealer trying to feed yourself on table scraps from some of the bigger players, and if you're going to grow your business, spouting off unprovoked on message board that many influencial collectors read is probably not the best idea.

EOM

Moldnut · September 26, 2010 7:42AM

Ok guys! I think your points have been made, lets try to have a little fun here. Lets face it, sales are probably not that great for most dealers and that might cause some concerns. When you have concerns, some might get a little touchy. We all would if our well being was on the line. Of course, thats just my guess.

WTCG · September 26, 2010 7:54AM

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego.

Excuse me for asking of WTCG, but who do you think you are? And what portion of your ego are you trying to feed from such attacks?

I thought the title, question and OP post was quite valid, and like many others here, I do try to keep up on the shows even if I rarely attend them.

The subsequent barb's at PerryHall were equally uncalled for IMO.

Just so you know, I don't know PerryHall or 291fifth.

As for you, I don't know you either. From what I can tell you're not much more than a vest pocket dealer trying to feed yourself on table scraps from some of the bigger players, and if you're going to grow your business, spouting off unprovoked on message board that many influencial collectors read is probably not the best idea.

I am a member of the PNG, I have sponsored other memberships to the PNG, I was at Long Beach and I was sharing a table with a retail dealer. 'nuff said.

These "influential collectors" you cite, most are people I personally know already. There's nothing they'll see here that'll shock them.

Who are you again?

Zoins · September 26, 2010 8:09AM

<< Hey Wei with all due respect, I would not include the PNG in my resume.

>>

I was thinking the same thing, given the press they've been getting!

rays · September 26, 2010 8:11AM

I attended Friday. I usually go Thursdays but work interfered this time.
In the 17 years I have been attending the Long Beach Expo, I have never seen it so quiet. Many dealers either were not there or had an empty table (even Friday MORNING!).

I am concerned the show may go away, which would be a shame as there is really no alternative show in Southern California to compare.

DennisH · September 26, 2010 8:15AM

I attended the show on setup day (Wednesday) and on Friday. I found the bourse size smaller yet again, the atmosphere lacking much sense of "life" and excitement, and attendance was not great. There were fewer large national dealers who set up, and there seemed to be more dealers who were sharing tables. In short, it's a show that seems to be dieing a slow but sure death.

pursuitofliberty · September 26, 2010 8:19AM

Who are you again?

No one you know personally (or probably ever will), but fair enough, I'll answer yours if you'll go back and answer mine ...

My name is Todd, I am soon to be 46, single father of three (youngest a freshman in HS, oldest is a MM2 in the US Navy), control system devoper/businessman, and a collector for the past 23 years. Member of the ANA for most of that time (lapsed about 5 years in the middle/late 90's as coins took a larger backseat to kids and business than they do now). I collect mostly Choice AU type ... have been known to overpay for what I like ... rarely sell ... and have a couple SDB's worth somewhere between my cars and my house.

My questions were both in respect to your attacks ... the first was "who do you think you are?" ... and second ... "what portion of your ego are you trying to feed ... ?"

My comments about who you are as a businessman was unwarranted and I retract those remarks, as they were uncalled for by me

PerryHall · September 26, 2010 8:23AM

<< Hey Wei with all due respect, I would not include the PNG in my resume.

>>

I see in his sig line that he's also an authorized dealer for DGS.

WTCG · September 26, 2010 8:34AM

<< 

<< Hey Wei with all due respect, I would not include the PNG in my resume.

>>

I see in his sig line that he's also an authorized dealer for DGS.

>>

The DGS mention is there as a courtesy to the people who were responsible for DGS. Some of them I consider good personal friends.

ThePennyLady · September 26, 2010 8:37AM

All right boys, let's play nice. Yes the show was smaller and slower than usual, attendance was probably off quite a bit, and yet it still is the best show in California so I sure hope Collectors Universe doesn't let it die. It's my favorite show since it's practically "in my backyard" and I actually did pretty well both buying and selling. I even bought a beautiful 1918-D Lincoln PCGS MS65 BN and a gorgeously toned NGC MS66 1861 Indian cent for my personal collection, not to mention some great date Lincolns for my inventory, and even got another pretty 1856 Flying Eagle on consignment! I can't wait to see Todd's photographs of these two babies!

By the way, from what I could tell, Todd was extremely busy the entire show - I think there are going to be lots of new Todd photos being posted on this board pretty soon, mine included!

I usually stay at this show til the last minute but this time the show happened to coincide with the Parrot Head Festival at Mission Bay in San Diego so I had to leave early on Saturday so I could join Mr. Penny Lady who had a wonderful refreshing Sky and Mango/Pineapple Juice just waiting for me! So I scooted out around 3pm, dropped off my inventory, then dashed on down to San Diego just in time for some fine Jimmy Buffet style music, lots of drinking, and great fun with hubby and fine friends!

I took a bike ride around the campground and took a few photos. Right at this minute, we're taking a little breather from the 90 degree weather, so I thought I'd take a peak at the message boards and saw this thread. So even though it's OT, to lighten this thread up a little, here are a couple fun photos from Sunny San Diego!!! (Note the cute parrot/palm tree/chili pepper lights hanging on the awning, AND the very useful handy dandy drink holder on my bike's handle bar!)

Justacommeman · September 26, 2010 9:09AM

<< Hey give the OP credit. He has correctly predicted all nine of the last two bear markets in coins and metals. >>

I'm going to have to admit I thought this comment was very funny

..........MJ

alohagary · September 26, 2010 10:00AM

Yes, there were less dealers setting up but activity was good except for Saturday which was very slow. However Sunday was great, may be because
many of the dealers left early so the public had less to look at and the dealers that stayed were active buying and selling. Sunday was my best day so I was happy that I stayed to the end.
gary

Walkerguy21D · September 26, 2010 10:02AM

Thank you, Charmy, for lightening up what was getting to be a rather stressful thread to read.
I will continue to read about and occasionally comment on show reports that I'm not able to attend - hope that's Ok with (most) everyone.
BTW - the Coral Reefer band is playing at the Cocoa Village Music Fest next week here on the East Coast - you can check it out, then hit the Lakeland Coin Show on Fri

pennyannie · September 26, 2010 11:17AM

Charmy- Where were you camped at? I do not see any sandrails or atv's in the background?

ChrisRx · September 26, 2010 11:18AM

It was ok. Not dead by any means.

The quality of coins in the auction were nicer as a whole than the last show (auction is the main reason I go.)

Extremely strong prices on about a dozen on my "want list." And about a dozen I took off of my "want list" after I saw them in hand.

p.s. I think I saw Wei at the Albanese table?

truthteller · September 26, 2010 11:24AM

<< Yes, there were less dealers setting up but activity was good except for Saturday which was very slow. However Sunday was great, may be because
many of the dealers left early so the public had less to look at and the dealers that stayed were active buying and selling. Sunday was my best day so I was happy that I stayed to the end.
gary >>

No more Sundays at Long Beach. Sept 23-25. Was the 26th an invitation only day?

TRUTH

PQpeace · September 26, 2010 11:50AM

I had a very busy show.
I sold lots of 90% silver,many cool type coins,walkers,and more Peace dollars than I have sold in a long time.
My retail biz was better than expected,and many of these customers found me from my website.
I was pretty happy.

I did not buy 1 coin from the Heritage auction,which was a first for me,as so many nice coins came to my table.

Long Beach isn't like it used to be,but I think the internet is responsible.
I did sell a few coins over the phone,so these guys saved hotel and plane tickets.
I will always be at LB from start to finish,as I onlt live 30 minutes away.
I have been going to LB since the 70's.
Larry

ThePennyLady · September 26, 2010 12:46PM

<< Charmy- Where were you camped at? I do not see any sandrails or atv's in the background? >>

I know, we had to leave the toys at home for this weekend, which involved much beverage embibing so it was probably a good thing! But sandrail season is only a few weekends away!!! Again, sorry to be OT and hope you all don't mind another brief diversion, but here are a couple more photos we took this evening on stroll along the beach....

notwilight · September 26, 2010 12:51PM

<< Why does the OP care? It's not like the OP is an active collector or is planning a trip to a coin show anytime soon. The status of this industry is already engraved in his mindset so there's no point for him to start these types of threads other than to fufill his "I told you so" portion of his ego.

Excuse me for asking of WTCG, but who do you think you are? And what portion of your ego are you trying to feed from such attacks?

I thought the title, question and OP post was quite valid, and like many others here, I do try to keep up on the shows even if I rarely attend them.

The subsequent barb's at PerryHall were equally uncalled for IMO.

Just so you know, I don't know PerryHall or 291fifth. >>

If you had read more of 291fifth's posts, you would understand WTCGs comment better. he just said what lots of people are thinking. --Jerry

LotsoLuck · September 26, 2010 1:28PM

Ok Charmy, I will take the bait...what is the "Parrot Head Festival at Mission Bay in San Diego"

ThePennyLady · September 26, 2010 1:52PM

<< Ok Charmy, I will take the bait...what is the "Parrot Head Festival at Mission Bay in San Diego"

>>

Again, I apologize for going OT.

but to answer the question, it's an annual event put on by a huge club of Jimmy Buffet music lovers who call themselves "Parrot Heads" (we are not members but certainly enjoy the music and the whole event). They have live Jimmy Buffet style of music in the park of the camp all weekend long, silent auctions, raffles, horseshoe contests, trailer/motorhome decorating contests, etc. Many people dress all tropical with parrot hats, flowered shirts, etc. All of the proceeds go to various charities. It's a huge deal, and people come from all over just for the day, or for the whole weekend long like us. The camp is located right on beautiful Mission Bay in San Diego, and holds probably 500 motorhome/trailer camp spots.

pursuitofliberty · September 26, 2010 1:56PM

If you had read more of 291fifth's posts, you would understand WTCGs comment better. he just said what lots of people are thinking. --Jerry

Oh, I have read 291fifth's posts, but I do not know him.

And I can understand your statement because I have read them. In fact, like MJ, I got a chuckle out of the line Hey give the OP credit. He has correctly predicted all nine of the last two bear markets in coins and metals. as well.

HOWEVER, the OP's post only asked a couple of questions about the show. No negative sky is falling BS, nothing ... simple questions.

My first thought was WTCG must have washed his panties in cold water with the comments he made. Maybe he had a bad show. We all have bad days ... but that isn't a good reason to rip on someone in an unprovoked attack.

I'm only responding again because in the ?? six ?? years I've been around here reading (and posting a bit) I do in fact have a good handle on most of the more frequent posters and colorful members. WTCG confirmed that I understand him well with his retort in fact.

Again, I felt that the attack was totaly uncalled for ... and I voiced it. Probably should have kept my mouth shut, but I have a thing for having the freedom to ask a question (it's a freedom of speech thing) ... most especially when you are not infringing on others rights, or their pursuit of liberty.

JSsson · September 26, 2010 2:17PM

<< As for you, I don't know you either. From what I can tell you're not much more than a vest pocket dealer trying to feed yourself on table scraps from some of the bigger players >>

Are you serious? He's considered one of the most successful younger dealers today. He is nationally known and respected. An apology from pursuitofliberty is in order for this both disgusting and unfounded remark

JSsson · September 26, 2010 2:19PM

<< If you had read more of 291fifth's posts, you would understand WTCGs comment better. he just said what lots of people are thinking. --Jerry >>

and frankly I'm getting very tired of 291fifth's b.s.

PQpeace · September 26, 2010 2:25PM

" you're not much more than a vest pocket dealer trying to feed yourself on table scraps "

I needed a good laugh...funny line.

savoyspecial · September 26, 2010 2:31PM

Wei, PerryHall

"so much drama in the LBC...."

pennyannie · September 26, 2010 2:38PM

<< 

<< As for you, I don't know you either. From what I can tell you're not much more than a vest pocket dealer trying to feed yourself on table scraps from some of the bigger players >>

Are you serious? He's considered one of the most successful younger dealers today. He is nationally known and respected. An apology from pursuitofliberty is in order for this both disgusting and unfounded remark >>

I would not. If he is one of the most respected younger dealers as you state he should never have made that type of remark. What is the website or store location as i would like to learn more as this hobby does need young dealers.

Tablescaps may have been a little harsh, because most of the time it is well known that muster stains are more likely.

robkool · September 26, 2010 2:50PM

Charmy... Thanks for sharing some kool pics of Mission Bay. Did you find some time to visit Hotel Coronado ??? Heard they got a really kool ice-cream parlor.
Sorry I couldn't make the LBC show this time around... Family & myself was home feeling the blues.

oreville · September 26, 2010 3:06PM

I am wondering if the official auction which appeared to be nearly non-stop at Long Beach on Friday and Saturday takes a toll on the bourse floor?

I recall that at the summer ANA, the auctions were very LIMITED during the day and held mostly during the evening.

Any merit to this being a causal factor hurting Long Beach?

This is in addition to the internet affecting Long Beach as stated by PQ Peace which I agree with.

How was the bourse at Long Beach?

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