5 Costly Coin Show Mistakes to Avoid After the PNNA Tukwila Event (And How to Prepare for Tax Changes)

I’ve Seen These Mistakes Over and Over. Here’s How to Avoid the Pitfalls That Trip Up Most Collectors

After a decade of coin shows (including last month’s PNNA Tukwila event), I can spot the costly mistakes before they happen. With Washington’s new 9% coin tax starting January 2026 and potential show moves to Portland, these errors could empty your wallet faster than a coin flip. Here’s what to watch for:

Mistake #1: Ignoring Tax Law Changes Until Checkout

The Tax Trap I Saw Coming a Mile Away

The real buzz at PNNA wasn’t about rare finds – it was about collectors getting caught off-guard by the tax change. These were the most common missteps:

• “I’ll buy everything now” panic without proper planning
• Believing dealers will cover the tax (they won’t)
• Not checking if your home state has tax agreements with Washington

Your Tax Survival Kit

“Smart collectors pay attention before the taxman comes calling”

1. Dealer Verification: Ask if they’re registered with Washington’s Business Licensing Service
2. Paperwork Ready: Keep Washington Form 27-0012 in your show binder
3. Timing Matters: Big purchases should happen before January 2026

Mistake #2: Treating Crowded Shows Like Casual Browsing Events

How Crowds Cost You Money

At PNNA, I saw collectors miss great coins because they didn’t plan for:

• Dealers blocking views of key inventory
• Distracted shoppers bumping into everyone
• People who never leave the best tables

Your Game Plan for Busy Shows

Try my proven schedule:

SHOW DAY STRATEGY
6:00 AM: Arrive early (with coffee)
6:30-8:00: Shop dealer previews
8:00-10:00: Buy your wishlist items
10:00-12:00: Second look at tables
12:00-1:00: Network while others eat
1:00 PM-close: Hunt for last-minute deals

Mistake #3: Failing to Prepare for Potential Portland Relocation

The Hidden Costs of Portland

If shows move, here’s what changes:

When Portland Makes Sense

Do the math before you go:

(Travel + Hotel) / Tax Rate = Break-Even Point
($600 + $400) / 0.09 = $11,111

You’d need to buy $11,000 in coins to make the trip worthwhile

Mistake #4: Networking Like It’s 1999

Modern Collectors Need Modern Tools

At PNNA, too many people missed these easy connections:

• Not using booth QR codes
• Ignoring coin apps like CoinPassport
• Forgetting about online show extensions

21st Century Networking

1. Try the CoinScope AR app for dealer info
2. Use digital business cards (Popl.co works great)
3. Set up follow-up calls with Calendly

Mistake #5: Underestimating Paperwork Precursors

The Boring Stuff That Saves You

Most collectors ignore these until it’s too late:

• State reseller permits
• IRS forms for big cash deals
• Difference between bullion and collectible rules

Paperwork Made Simple

My stress-free system:

1. BEFORE:
   - Get tax forms ready
   - Print W-9s
2. AT SHOW:
   - Photo docs with your phone
   - Use CamScanner app
3. AFTER:
   - Save to cloud storage
   - Set tax reminders

Your Pre-Show Checklist

Before any 2025-2026 coin show:

• ☑️ Understand tax changes
• ☑️ Pack your phone and charger
• ☑️ Plan for possible Portland trips
• ☑️ List verified dealers
• ☑️ Set calendar reminders

Turning Challenges Into Wins

While others stressed at PNNA, smart collectors were:

• Making Oregon contacts early
• Locking in pre-tax deals
• Mixing online and in-person shopping

Here’s the truth: When the rules change, prepared collectors find the best deals. Start planning now, and Washington’s tax shift could become your collecting advantage.

Related Resources

You might also find these related articles helpful:

• Coin Show Newbie’s Handbook: Navigating PNNA Events & Understanding the 2025 Tukwila Experience – New to Coin Collecting? Your Friendly First-Timer’s Guide to PNNA Events Welcome to the exciting world of coin sho…
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