Ah the big show. I wish that I would be there, but alas, only my help.
Anyways, absolutely take your coins to have them looked at. Have them looked at by many dealers. Let me back up a second.
First, take your greysheet, and a grading guide.
Walk the floor and get an overview of the show. The
ANA is a monster and can overwhelm all but the most hardy. There are members here that will tell you that I am like a kid in the candy store at the big shows. Drooling and oohing and ahhing.
Find dealers who sell coins such as the ones that you have or want. Talk with them first (if time permits) and be aware of customers who are also looking.
Before you show your coins to any dealer, you need to have a general idea of the grade and value of the coin. If any dealer quotes a grade or price that is way off, ask why. You may have overlooked an old cleaning or rim bumps, or something minor.
Also the most important thing to remember that these guys are there to make money. Some forget that it takes customers to accomplish this and can be quite rude. Don't judge every dealer on a few bad ones. Just thank them for their time and move on. You will have 500+ dealers to choose from.
When looking for a coin to purchase, be extra choosy. There will be few coins that have a "must buy" tag. Ask for the dealers grade if they do not have it marked and ask if they buy and sell based on greysheet. Then check to see how close they actually are.
DO NOT waive that greysheet like it is a magic wand. Dealers will hone in on you in a heartbeat and nail you good.
Be sure to ask lots of questions. A large show can be a great experience if done properly. I have had the experience to walk a few friends through some of the larger shows, and I learn how the little collector thinks. I find it great that people can still be excited over a Red
Indian cent.
Now that you have me all sidetracked, the number 1 rule is to have fun. I would suggest that you attend the show both days. Thursday will be far less busy and you will have more time to talk. Save Friday for buying and selling. Take a pen and paper with you to write down dealer table numbers and location. Get plenty of business cards.
I will also drop you an email of a few dealers that will be of an interest in your collecting area.
Posted 07/22/2005 1:40 pm
