Poll Question: What do you look forward to the most when attending a large coin show? The dealers, displays, discussions or something else? Why?

As a collector, all aspects of visiting with dealers, collectors, and the general public is very enjoyable. When buying a table, every sale counts as a win - helping fulfill some collector’s goal (I could, but don’t sell bullion). As most of my collection and sales deal with foreign coins and paper, I get to help many show visitors identify what they have. I point visitors to other dealers who I believe can help them the most in pricing items that I am less familiar with. I see lots of smiles, which tends to “make my day.”

Larry Vann, Arkansas

When I attend a large coin show, first I look over the show, then I look to see which dealers are busy, and I tend to gravitate toward those dealers, as I think they have returning customers. I then look over their items on display and ask if they have the item I am looking for.

Many times, I get the reply, “I had that coin 1/2 hour ago.” One time, it took me asking a dozen dealers if they had a particular coin; finally, one said he did, and that coin completed my set. So when I go to a large coin show, I am looking for a particular coin.

Name and Address withheld

When visiting a coin show, I always bring a list of what I am looking for and try my best to stick to that list, since my funds are somewhat limited. I enjoy talking to dealers to find out how knowledgeable they may or may not be. I have found over the years that really big shows have a lot of speculators, which I do not interact with. I enjoy talking to a numismatist to acquire knowledge, as you can always learn something new, and this includes both dealers and other people at a show. I like to see how dealers display their material, and I can quickly tell how much they care about their products and what they are interested in selling, so that I do not waste my time and concentrate on what I am looking for. A very well-organized display will usually catch my eye, even if I cannot afford to purchase any of the items. I am always interested in seeing things I have not had an opportunity to see or see very often. It’s nice to see some high-grade items you wish you could afford to buy but know you can’t. Even if you do not buy anything at a show, the friendship and knowledge you can acquire is very rewarding.

Name and Address withheld

That's too easy. For friends and that coin you add to your collection or inventory that just makes you as happy as the kid you were at Christmas.

Mark Ruzzo, Facebook

Oh, there are many aspects of the shows, but I suppose after around 35 years, I mainly enjoy reconnecting with many of the dealers/friends I've met and dealt with over those years and reminiscing and chatting about various aspects of our hobby.

Doug Noblet, Facebook

It's all about seeing the people! It's like a family reunion that I actually WANT to attend!

Chang Bullock, Facebook

I would hope they would have a live demonstration program to further educate the newer collectors.

Scott Hileman, Facebook