2015 Spring Baltimore Show?

Better the early days of the show rather than the later ones - some dealers sell out and/or get bored and leave early. Don't bother with Early Bird unless you're in the 4+-digit shopping range. People use that option to snag the real high-end stuff which sells immediately to the first person who sees it.

You'll be completely blown away by the selection as it is. Two days will be ample. If you have some specific wants, check out beforehand the dealer list to see specialties.

Not a problem. I figure to be there - I'm in Philly and it's a train ride for me.

@just_carl: Maybe we shop for different types of coins, but I don't share the large show experiences you describe.

Yes, the tables are certainly more expensive, but that doesn't necessarily mean all dealers charge more for their coins. Personally, I have found many great deals at large shows such as the Baltimore show.

The biggest benefit of larger shows (IMO) is the variety and quality of material that is available for purchase. You will have the opportunity to see and purchase material you just don't come across (or rarely do) at the typical small show. As SsuperDdave stated, the selection at Baltimore is incredible! It's a show I would encourage all collectors to attend if possible.

I'll place one caveat on my previous statement, if you primarily collect $5 and $10 coins, shows like Baltimore may be overkill. You'll still find pieces to look at and purchase, it's just not the focus of large shows. Their primary purpose is to offer material less often encountered - whether because of rarity or high-end quality. Five- and six-figure price tags are not uncommon on the bourse at Baltimore, FUN, ANA, etc.

@Krusti-Koin: Your plan to go on Thursday and Friday is a good one. If you're there toward the end of the day on Friday, you will see a number of dealers start to pack up and shut down. By Saturday afternoon, the bourse floor has many empty tables.

I hope you have a great show experience and come back with many new treasures! Make sure to let us know how you did!

Thanks again for the information. I had hoped to make the FUN show, but it is not in the cards for me.

also parking in Baltimore is expensive..

I enjoy the Spring Whitman Expo, and agree that the earlier days scheduled are best. With my limited focus I find that I don't need to study every dealers table. I know who I want to see and focus on those first.

Note to Dave: Maybe we can finally meet up in Baltimore!

I went to a HUGE Baltimore show when I was a kid.
Maybe it was just my age, but I loved it! Never
before or since been to a show that big. I think it
was 1981 or so... I went with my uncle. He was going
to buy rolls of 1950-D nickels. I remember original
rolls were about $200 each. I talked to him about
it recently, and he said he still has those rolls
he bought at that show.

What are the dates of the show?
I am going to be in Baltimore around Valentine's Day.