Just Went To My First Coin Show...boy Was I Lost !

Every one is a bit different...but here's what I do.

First...I decide if I'm looking for a specific coin (or coins) or if I'm looking for good deals. If the former, I make a list and stick to it. (Not that I don't browse...but I don't let myself get sidetracked.)

Second...I do my best to determine what money I'm willing to pay for the coins on my list, so I don't get carried away. (I was once an impulse buyer, so I've learned the hard way to watch my pocket book!)

I used to be a bit shy...now I ask a lot more questions. I'm not the sort to argue about grades with a dealer, but if I think the coin is overgraded and/or overpriced I will walk away with a shake of my head. Some dealers make it easier to dicker; I can, when I'm in the right mood.

Don't let the size and number of tables, etc., get you flustered. Everyone there has the same general goals...to sell some coins, to buy some coins, and to have a good time. Usually, if you ask for some help and or advice, folks are more than willing to gab all day.

Finally, some say that it is bad form to bring a Red Book or grey sheet with you. I don't agree. Bring whatever reference materials you want. Just remember that the Red Book is always somewhat out of date, so it really is nothing more than a "guide" to possible value of a coin. Even grey sheets, published monthly, can be too high or too low based on a lot of different issues. Still, either reference can be a good guide to keep you from getting too carried away.

Take a loupe or magnifying glass, and be sure to take note of the lighting in the room. I've often found the lighting to be miserable for grading coins. I like the small magnifying glasses that also have a built in light.

Mostly, just go with the intent of having fun and buying a few coins. If you're nervous about that, start small! Don't go looking for a $2,000 coin right off the bat, unless you are well-heeled and well-educated about the coin and series.

I'm sure others will have better advice.
Good luck!

LOL. When I went to my first I did nothing but "window shop" for the first two days - it felt like buck fever when I thought about buying something. Don't worry, it will pass. In fact it will go the other way pretty soon - you won't be able to stop yourself :)

Lots of good advice here. Personally I like to walk the entire show and make notes of who has the kind of coins I am looking for. I generally wont buy something on first view unless it's a great deal or I think someone else might buy it if I dont. Feel free to ask lots of questions and dont be afraid to walk away from a deal if it doesn't feel right to you.

i cant wait until the coin show comes around again

Poor form to bring refrence materials with you to a show?

Who says that? Dealers?

You can bet every single dealer there has some form of reference that they'll draw like a lightsaber if they need it.

I still hsvent gone to a coin show yet, though I hope to go to one soon.

Some suggestions from someone that goes to 2 to 4 coin shows a month.
1. Go with an open mind. Do not go with the intent on purchasing a certain item. You may miss many great opertunities if you are there and using tunnel vision
2. Attempt not to take a check book or credit cards. At least until you are well aware of what you are doing. You don't want to be caught up in a buying frenzy.
3. Usually start at one end and walk the entire room prior to attempting to purchase a coin, book, etc. You may find the same item cheaper at the next table. Of course you may pass up a great deal also.
4. The Red Book is heavy and useless for prices. If you have a grey sheet or other light weight price list, take that. If the show is large any excess, useless weight is a burden and may make you want to leave earlier.
5. Be carefull. If you do have a check book, watch carefully for anyone standing over you when you bring it out. Remember how many people now have camera phones. Your personal information may well be on that check.
6. Same with credit cards as number 5.
7. Keep all cash in a front pocket. If in a rear pocket and the show is crowded, you may be amazed at how fast a bump could releive you of your cash.
8. Due to the area I live I find it pays to first locate the nearest police station to the show. When leaving the show if followed, you may want to stop there. You could just ask directions but anyone following you don't know that.
9. When leaving a coin show watch for anyone else leaving at the same time. If there are any, go back inside and pretend to look at a table. Then leave again. If the same person comes and goes when you do, do this seveal times to let them know you know.
10. If you leave the show and suspect someone is watching you, don't go to your car right away. Your car has license plates, some have stickers, all give away to much information. Stand outside for a while as if trying to get some fresh air, go back inside and repeat until you feel safe.
11. OH YEAH, have and have fun too.