Preview Dealer List and Floor Map
30 minutesDownload show dealer directory, highlight specialists in your series, and plan a walking route to avoid backtracking.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Complete guide for coin show navigation — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Download show dealer directory, highlight specialists in your series, and plan a walking route to avoid backtracking.
List target coins with maximum grade and price from Red Book or recent auction realizations — stick to the list.
Examine coins at table under dealer lamp, negotiate politely using cash discount leverage, and reject anything below your grade floor.
Record every purchase with dealer name, price, grade estimate, and update want list gaps for future shows.
Carry a printed want list with grade floors and price ceilings for disciplined floor buying.
Plan show visit duration and table route to cover specialist dealers before general admission rush ends.
Calculate maximum offer as percentage of catalog or auction comp before negotiating at dealer tables.
Photograph purchases under show lighting for immediate inventory documentation.
Essential items for productive coin show attendance.
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10× loupe | Grade inspection | Essential for raw purchases |
| Want list | Discipline | Prevents impulse buys |
| Cash in bands | Negotiation | Many dealers prefer cash discount |
| 2×2 flips | Transport | Separate purchases immediately |
Best material surfaces in first hour — arrive at door opening for key series.
The coin you hesitate on will still exist — overpaying regret lasts longer.
Busy tables increase misgrade risk — inspect under your own loupe, not dealer narrative.