Beginner’s Guide to Selling Coins at Shows: What Sells Best and How to Price It

Introduction

Ever walked into a coin show feeling completely lost? You’re not alone. Whether you’re dipping your toes into coin selling or turning your collection into cash, this beginner’s guide cuts through the noise. I’ll show you exactly which coins fly off the table and how to price them so you walk away with profit in your pocket – not just leftovers in your case.

Understanding the Coin Show Market

Coin shows are like live-action trading floors where every table tells a story. The key? Spotting what makes buyers open their wallets. Forget guessing games – I’ve asked seasoned dealers what really sells, and here’s their unfiltered advice.

What Types of Coins Sell Best?

After helping dozens of new sellers, I’ve nailed down five categories that consistently perform:

• Certified Coins (PCGS/CAC): Think of these as the “blue chip stocks” of coins. Grading removes buyer hesitation. Pro tip: $100-$300 range hits the sweet spot.
• Better Date Morgans: These silver dollars are the celebrities of coin shows. Rare dates? Even better.
• Junk Silver (90% Silver Coins): The fast food of coins – quick, satisfying transactions that keep buyers coming back.
• Toned Coins: Nature’s artwork turns ordinary coins into conversation pieces.
• Semi-Key and Lower-End Key Coins: Perfect for budget-conscious collectors building sets.

Pricing Strategies That Work

Pricing isn’t rocket science, but get it wrong and your table becomes a ghost town. Here’s how the pros do it:

• Recent Comps: Check eBay sold listings religiously. Actual sales beat price guides every time.
• Negotiation Room: Price 10-15% above your bottom line. Shows run on friendly haggling.
• Overpricing = Empty Table: Saw a dealer last month still sitting on the same overpriced Peace dollars at closing time. Don’t be that person.

Common Beginner Blunders

Watch out for these rookie mistakes I made so you don’t have to:

• “Free Will Sell”: Giving away wheat pennies might draw a crowd, but they won’t pay your table fee.
• “All Buyers Are Serious”: You’ll meet talkers who just want to hold coins. Smile, but don’t waste your best stories on them.
• “Price Guides Are Gospel”: When silver spikes, your red book becomes a history lesson, not a pricing tool.

Actionable Tips for First-Time Sellers

1. Start Small, Sell Smart

My first show? I brought 20 certified coins and $200 in junk silver. The junk brought traffic, the certified brought profit. Find your balance.

2. Negotiation Without the Nerves

When a buyer offers 50% of your price, don’t panic. My mentor taught me: “The first offer is their dream, not your reality.” Counter with confidence.

3. Security Isn’t Optional

Saw a guy lose a Mercury dime collection while counting change. Use a locking case and never leave cash unattended.

4. Remember Why You’re Here

The best deals often start with coffee and coin talk. Some of my best pricing tips came from competitors who became friends.

Your Next Steps

Now you know the coins that sell (certified, Morgans, silver), how to price them (research, haggle room, stay realistic), and what to avoid. Grab your inventory, practice your pitch, and remember – every dealer started where you are now. See you at the next show!

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